Barbara Anne (Welsh) Abernathy

Barbara Anne (Welsh) Abernathy, born on September 3, 1963, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2025, surrounded by those she loved. Barbara lived her life with a free spirit and an open heart, embracing the world with kindness, creativity, and a deep love for nature and people alike.

Born to the late Barbara Elizabeth (Stephen) Welsh and Joseph H. Welsh, Barbara carried forward her family’s legacy of warmth and compassion. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Elizabeth Welsh, and her beloved baby, Brandon Michael Batchelor.

She leaves behind her loving husband, Kenneth Gary Abernathy; her cherished children, Chezlynn Stafford, Karen Abernathy, Josue Torres, and Kenneth Gary Abernathy II; her brother, Joseph H. Welsh, Jr.; her sisters, Judith Anne (Welsh) Mason and her husband John Mason, and Charlotte (Welsh) Mitchell and her husband Harlen Jay Mitchell; along with her adored grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends who will forever hold her close in their hearts.

Barbara had a hippie soul—she believed in peace, love, good music, and the power of community. She could light up a room with her laughter and make anyone feel at home. Whether she was tending her garden, sharing stories, or offering a listening ear, Barbara lived with authenticity and joy.

Her spirit will continue to dance in the hearts of all who knew her.

A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held at a later date. In keeping with her wishes, friends are encouraged to honor her memory by spreading kindness, enjoying the beauty of nature, and living freely and lovingly—just as she did.