Joyce Bell Abernethy

Joyce Bell Abernethy, 92, passed away gracefully on November 16, 2018 at Magnolia Glen in Raleigh with her family at her side.

Joyce was born in Burke County, GA on February 14, 1926 to the late Horace and Edla Bell. Her husband, the late Dr. Charles V. Abernethy, Sr. was a dentist in Forest City for over fifty years and preceded her death in 2013. They were married for 68 years and were predeceased by their oldest son Charles V. Abernethy, Jr.

After high school Joyce moved to Atlanta to attend business school. It was there she met Charlie on a blind date at The Varsity. Once he graduated from Emory University’s School of Dentistry, they settled in Forest City where Charlie opened his dental practice, they raised their family and immersed themselves in the community. 

Joyce earned a degree from Gardner-Webb University and worked for twenty-five years in the Continuing Education Department of Isothermal Community College. After retirement, Joyce and Charlie traveled the country together. Joyce was an active member of the First United Methodist Church, cherished her vast collection of Blue Willow china, and played a spirited game of bridge. 

Joyce leaves behind her son Rod Abernethy (Suzanne Ruggles) of Raleigh, grandchildren Amy Brogdon (Ralph) of Indian Trail NC, Sara Abernethy (Chris Borreson) of Durham and Matthew Abernethy of Raleigh, great-grandchildren Lance Cpl. Danielle Kyle of Jacksonville NC and Charles Kyle of Indian Trail NC, nephews Paul “Mac” Abernethy, Jr. and Judge Richard Abernethy, nieces Susan Abernethy and Mary Jo Abernethy, and daughter-in-law Patrice Abernethy.  

Special thanks to the staff at Magnolia Glen who diligently and cheerfully aided in her daily care for this past year and to Transitions LifeCare who provided hospice care in Joyce’s final days. 

Graveside services will be held at 1PM in the Cool Springs Cemetery, Forest City, NC, Wednesday, November 21, 2018, with Reverend Faye Herbin officiating. Visitation will follow at the graveside. Friends are welcome to join the family for lunch following the service at the Copper Penny Grill, Forest City. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a memorial contribution to Transitions LifeCare 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27605. 

The Padgett and King Mortuary & Crematory is in charge of arrangements and an online guest registry is available at www.padgettking.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.