Leah Cotton Abernathy

Leah Cotton Abernathy was born February 19, 1939 in Columbia Tennessee to the late Thomas Haynes Cotton and Gladys Fay Spinks Cotton. She passed away June 14, 2024 at Maury Regional hospital. 

Leah graduated from Columbia Central High School and attended Bowling Green Business College and Martin Methodist College. Soon after returning to Columbia from school, she met the love of her life, Bill Abernathy, a chance meeting on a double date, which was the start of their lifelong journey. Leah spent several years working as a secretary at Columbia State Community College before opening her clothing stores in Columbia and Murfreesboro. 

Over the years, Leah and Bill enjoyed their bridge clubs, square dancing, camping, traveling, but nothing brought more pleasure and happiness than sitting in the yard or on the bluff overlooking Little Bigby Creek as friends, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren painted a masterpiece of life well lived. These shared experiences were the souvenirs Leah assembled over her lifetime.

She is survived by her children, Lora Leigh (Steve) Lape and William David Abernathy, and five of their six grandchildren, Kris, Kacie, and Robby Lape and Brady and Drake Abernathy. Leah forged wonderful memories with the next generation as well. Great Grandchildren Lilah, Katie, Henry and Lucy will remember and cherish the golf cart rides, wading in the creek, and being pushed on the swing with joy and love reflected in her smile.  

Leah was preceded in death by her late husband William Earnest Abernathy, as well as her beautiful granddaughter, Kayla Abernathy. She lost three of her five siblings, Fay Ray McMurray, Margarite Truelove and Haynes Cotton. She is survived by sisters, Glenda Cuam and Libby Aldred. 

We will all embrace and cherish Leah as life passes from reality to memory. Leah will be with us always as we live out the legacy handed down to us, her beloved family. Thank you, mom. Thank you, Nani.

The family is arranging a celebration of life to take place in early August. Online condolences may be extended online at www.oakesandnichols.com.