Patricia Ann “Patsy” (Bascom) Abernathy

Patricia Ann Abernathy, known affectionately as Patsy, peacefully passed away on January 4, 2024, at the age of 90 in Tyler, Texas. She was born on May 26, 1933, in Youngstown, Ohio, to Nancy and Wade Bascom. Patsy was the loving wife of the late Lt. Col. Thomas R. Abernathy, USMC Ret, and together they shared many memorable years.

Patsy is survived by her children, stepchildren, and their spouses: Michael Place (Gina) of Nashville, TN; Kathryn Douglas (Jack) of Poolesville, MD; Brenda DeBell (Stuart) of Catharpin, VA; David Abernathy (Putsie) of Fredericksburg, VA; James Abernathy (Rosie) of Tyler, TX; Christopher Abernathy (Betsy) of Dallas, TX; Stephen Abernathy (Pam) of Simi Valley, CA; and Charles Abernathy of Arlington, VA. She is also survived by thirteen grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

Patsy was preceded in death by her husband, Lt. Col. Thomas R. Abernathy, USMC, Ret.; her parents, Nancy and Wade Bascom; and her brother, Capt. Wade Robert Bascom, USN Ret.

Patsy was a dedicated mother who took great pride in the accomplishments of her children, stepchildren, and grandchildren. She was especially proud of her family's military service, including that of her husband, brother, and several of her children and grandchildren. Patsy's kind nature extended behind her immediate family; she had a soft spot for stray dogs and cats, often taking them in and providing them with a home.

Patsy attended Highland Park High School in Dallas, Texas, and later pursued her interest in gerontology at Palomar Junior College in San Marco, California. An avid reader, she also enjoyed crossword puzzles and other word games. She liked to stay informed by watching the news and BBC shows on television. She also enjoyed listening to a wide variety of music, passing her love of music on to her children.

She worked in several clerical positions before retiring, including at the US Air Force Civil Service and the C&P Telephone Company.

Patsy found solace in her faith and was a member of St. Francis Episcopal Church in Tyler, Texas. She was a member of the Order of the Daughters of the King.

Patsy loved gardens and gardening and was a member of the gardening club in Kilgore, Texas. In her last few years, she enjoyed watching the seasons pass outside her window while her beloved cat sat in her lap.

A memorial service to celebrate Patsy's life will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 11 a.m. at St. Francis Episcopal Church, located at 3232 Jan Avenue in Tyler, Texas. The Very Reverend Mitchell Tollett will preside over the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Humane Society's Pets Fur People of East Texas or St. Francis Episcopal Church in Tyler, Texas.