Wayland Gray Abernathy Jr.

NASHVILLE – Wayland Gray Abernathy, Jr., age 84, passed away on Sunday, October 18, 2026.  Born in Baltimore, MD on August 11, 1942, he was the son of the late Wayland Gray Abernathy, Sr. and Bertha Pauline Brown Abernathy.  He was also preceded in death by his brother, Gary Lee Abernathy.

Known to many as “Chief”, “Abby,” or “Crabby Abby” by his NRA friends, Wayland retired from the United States Air Force in 1987 as a Chief Master Sergeant after nearly 28 years of service. His sarcastic wit and mischievous humor were familiar to those who knew him. He was happiest when everyone was home for the holidays, watching his family open presents while insisting he already had everything he needed.  A devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and uncle, Wayland will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Wayland is survived by his wife, Regina “Jinx” Abernathy; his daughter, Tatiana R. Abernathy; his son, Wayland Gray Abernathy III; his grandchildren, Dakota Gray Abernathy and Amalia Ruth Abernathy; and his youngest brother, Christopher Ira Abernathy. Wayland also has many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A Celebration of Life Service to celebrate Wayland’s life will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 1:00 PM at St Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 301 S Circle Dr, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 with Rev. Father Les Carpenter officiating.  A Private Family Burial will be held at Oak Dale Cemetery, Spring Hope, NC. Visitation with the family will be from 12:00 PM to 12:45 PM prior to the service at St Andrew’s Episcopal Church.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.