J. Bradley Abernathy passed away Monday, February 6, 2012, at the age of 68, at his home surrounded by his family.
Bradley Abernathy was born in Gainesville, Georgia, grew up in New Holland and Maysville, and graduated from Commerce High School. After high school Bradley went straight to work at Commerce Sportswear as plant manager when his role as the head of his family was thrust upon him at the early passing of his father.
In 1972, Bradley began working with Don Carter Realty. Later Bradley became an owner of Boulevard Associates Real Estate, which eventually became Northside Realty. Bradley continued to be a managing broker for Northside Realty until his retirement in 2002. Through his career in real estate he changed the landscape and skyline of his hometown. His real estate contributions include several shopping centers, office buildings, residential neighborhoods, and condominium complexes.
Bradley was an avid outdoorsman and cook. He loved hunting, fishing, boating, listening to music (entirely too loud), skiing, and gardening. He could grow anything except corn. His true passion was the time spent with his family and friends. The culmination of these two loves resulted in the building of his dream farm. There he lived out his retirement surrounded by his family, friends, and hobbies.
He was a type A of type A's. He was known by many for his strong words, his jokes, and his smile. One of his favorite quips was, "Live fast, love hard, die young, and leave a beautiful memory."
Bradley is survived by his wife, Beth Abernathy; children: R. Brad and Jill V. Abernathy, Stacey Abernathy, Ben and Suzie Hawkins, Elizabeth Hawkins, Jim Hawkins, and Charlie Hawkins; grandchildren: Sadie Mason Abernathy, Katharine Bradley Abernathy, Anne Christine Hawkins, Benny Lee Hawkins, Jr., Jane Elizabeth Hawkins; and mother: Dot Abernathy; and sisters, Patsy Davis and Sandra Cain. He was preceded in death by his father, William Ford Abernathy.
The family has requested that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Hospice of Northeast Georgia 2150 Limestone Parkway Suite 115 Gainesville, GA 30501; The Guest House 320 Tower Heights Road Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-535-1487 or We Care P.O. Box 2939 Gainesville, GA 30503.
Funeral services will be held at the First Baptist Church in Gainesville, Wednesday, February 8th at 2:00. Dr. Bill Coates, Reverend Steve Brown and Reverend Bruce Fields will officiate. The family will receive friends following the service in the fellowship hall.
Memorial Park North Riverside Chapel 989 Riverside Drive Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-297-6200 or Online condolences at www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com.
