Christopher Carson Abernethy, Sr.

Christopher Carson Abernethy Sr, 63, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away after a brave battle with colon cancer, on April 15, 2024.

Chris was born on October 29, 1960 in Charlotte, North Carolina to the late, Harold Eugene Abernethy and Carole Carson Abernethy.  Along with his parents, Chris is preceded in death by his sister, Cynthia Louise Tait.  He is survived by his former spouse, Tamara Weldon Abernethy, their two children, Christopher Carson Abernethy II and Caroline Patton Abernethy.  His former spouse, Julie Zhu-Abernethy and his sister, Gena Abernethy Haviland.

In his early years, Chris was a natural athlete and animal lover.  He graduated from Charlotte Christian in 1979 and attended Belhaven University for one year on a baseball scholarship.  Chris with his charismatic personality started working in retail sales,  he then went on to work in the car industry.  This is where he met, Tamara and the two were wed in August 1989. Chris continued working in car dealerships in one role or another for 35 years.  This took him to cities such as Scottsdale AZ, Chicago IL, Asheville NC, and Charlotte NC.  In Asheville, he met Julie and the two were married in June 2005.

Chris never met a stranger, he built lifelong friendships.  He enjoyed playing basketball, softball, cycling, and was an avid reader.  He always ended the night with a book in hand.  Chris was an optimist, always facing life with a smile on his face and determination in his heart.  Even when battling his sickness, he never wanted anyone to worry and he never complained.

Chris was a member of the Queen City Group of AA.  His sponsor, Doug Robertson, quickly became a dear friend and mentor.  The last years of his life, Chris spent as an Uber driver.  He had a remarkable way to make people feel welcomed and always enjoyed good conversation and encouraging others.  His light, laughter, and presence will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to, The Charlotte Rescue Mission.

A visitation will be held Saturday, June 1, 2024 from 10:00 to 11:00am at Raymer-Kepner Chapel located at 16901 Old Statesville Road, Huntersville, NC 28078. A celebration of life will follow at 11:00am.