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Mary L. Abernathy
May 4th, 1932 – July 3rd, 2026
Mary L. Abernathy, 94 of Macomb, Illinois, formerly of Table Grove, Illinois, passed away on Friday, July 3rd, 2026 at 5:35 pm at The Elms in Macomb. She was born on May 4, 1932 in Macomb, the daughter of Harry and Susie (DeMoss) Ritter. She married Dale Abernathy on October 30, 1950 in Macomb. He preceded her in death on November 24, 2001.
She was also preceded in death by two sisters, Betty Walters and Eleanor Thorne, three brothers; Harry Ritter, Jr., Paul Ritter and Jack Ritter, and one step-brother Gene Miller.
Mary is survived by her two sons, Jim (and Charlene) Abernathy of Table Grove, Illinois and Jeff (and Karen) Abernathy of Lewistown, Illinois, three grandchildren; Kevin (and Brandi) Abernathy, Eric (and Mollie) Abernathy and Jeff Abernathy, four great-grandchildren; Lily, Bella, Gavin and Liam Abernathy, one step-great-grandson Gauge Barker and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
For years, Mary was a caregiver and housekeeper for several area Table Grove families.
She was a lifetime Chicago Cubs fan and attended her first Cubs game at age 80. She was an avid crocheter and donated many lap blankets to area nursing homes. She was a great cookie baker and loved tending to her flowers around her home and going for rides in the country, enjoying the wildlife.
Mary loved taking walks with Jim and his labs. She enjoyed nightly visits from her Niece Ronda and her dog while on a walk. She also enjoyed her VIP trips to Disneyland in California and Disney World.
Private graveside services will be held. Memorials in Mary’s memory may be made to the Table Grove Fire Department. Interment will be in the Harris Cemetery in Table Grove.
Condolences
July 6th, 2026
Mary was a wonderful neighbor to us and remained a dear friend, after we moved to the country. She will always be remembered with fond memories. We are so sorry for your loss Jim and Jeff and family.
With Sympathy and Condolences,
Rick and Kathy Heller and our family
July 6th, 2026
Deepest sympathy to the families of Jim and Jeff. Janis Weaver Robinson
July 6th, 2026
Sending my love and sympathy to all your families! So sorry for your loss! 😩
July 6th, 2026
The above from Michelle Wherley.
July 6th, 2026
My condolences to all the family.
-Rhonda Kendrick
July 6th, 2026
Condolences to all your family. Sharon Stracker
July 7th, 2026
Sincere sympathy to all the family on the passing of your loved one. Many thoughts and prayers for comfort and peace. Cheryl (Cox) Matteson
July 7th, 2026
My deepest sympathy Jim and Charlene and all your family. Love you❤ Linda Bean Windsor
July 7th, 2026
So sorry to hear of the passing of your mom Jim. My condolences to you and your entire family during these troubling times. Al and Susan Miller and our families.
July 7th, 2026
Condolences to Jim and his family. Gene Thorman
July 8th, 2026
Hugs and prayers to all of Mary’s family. Judy Wilson
