Samuel Chrisman Abernethy

S. Chrisman Abernethy, Jr. “Chris”, passed away on November 29, 2021 at the age of 81, but will live on in the hearts and memories of the many people whose lives were touched by his service, generosity, and caring.

Born in Philadelphia, Chris moved to Long Island, NY, living in New Hyde Park and East Williston for most of his life. He graduated from the Wheatley School, and then from SUNY Agricultural and Technical Institute at Farmingdale. He then enlisted in the Coast Guard, serving in Argentia, Newfoundland on an icebreaker, among other things, until his honorable discharge as a Radioman 1st class.

Chris then went on to pursue his dream of being a New York City firefighter, having been an active member of the East Williston Fire Department (including serving as chief) for many years. He served the city of New York for 20 years, and moved to Florida after he retired.

In his retirement, Chris became active in the Coast Guard Auxiliary, serving for 20 years at the Lake Worth Inlet Coast Guard station, often acting as Officer of the Day, and also supervising and teaching the boating safety classes. He was well loved and respected, and was a mentor to many young Coast Guard men and women. This fall, the room in which he manned the radios was named after him in his honor.

Chris is missed and survived by his sister Corless (Corlie) Eldred and her husband Keith, their three sons and grandchildren, his life partner Ed Wilson, and many special friends. His ashes will be buried at sea in a Coast Guard ceremony in the spring