Mary L. Abernathy

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, attending her first Cubs game in 1980. 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.