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Otis J. Abernathy, 87, of LaGrange, died March 25, at his home.

Mr. Abernathy was born May 24, 1932, in Chambers County, Alabama, son of the late William M. Abernathy and Mary Leila Shockley Abernathy. He had lived in the LaGrange area since July 1962, and was a member of the First Baptist Church on the Square in LaGrange. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Peggy Kaye Collins.

Mr. Abernathy received the B.S. in Education, M.S. and Specialist degrees in Educational Administration from Auburn University. He was a past director and served as Chairman of the Board for West Georgia Health Systems several times throughout a period of 20 years, served as Chairman of the Hospice Charitable Trust Advisory Board from 1995 to 2020, served on the Troup County Board of Health for 18 years, served as a Trustee on the Board of Camp Viola, served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, served as sixth grade teacher, elementary school principal, high school principal and Superintendent of Troup County Schools for 18 years.

Survivors include his wife, Catherine L. Abernathy, of LaGrange; son, Marvin Randy (Megan) Abernathy of LaGrange; grandchildren, Andrea (Steve) Evans and Andy (Anna) Baxley; seven great grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

A private graveside service will be held Friday, March 27, at the Shadowlawn Mausoleum in LaGrange with Rev. Cade Farris and Dr. Paul Baxter officiating. A memorial service and celebration of life will be held after the current health crisis subsides.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice LaGrange Charitable Trust, 1514 Vernon Road, LaGrange, in memory of Mr. Abernathy.

Those wishing to share a condolence or remembrance with the family may do so by visiting shlagrange.com.

Arrangements are by Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 1010 Mooty Bridge Road, LaGrange.