Abbie Gibbe Richardson

Abbie Gibbe Abernathy Richardson, 92, of Warren passed away March 24,2012 at Medical Center of South Arkansas in El Dorado, Ark. Born October 2, 1919 in Banks, Ark. she was the daughter of the late Alpha Cunningham Abernathy and Gibb W. Abernathy. She was valedictorian of her high school class and received a scholarship to UAM where she studied music. While there she was voted Most Beautiful Girl on Campus. It is her voice, her love of life and her charisma that will be remembered in the hearts of many. She married Floyd Thomas Richardson on September 6, 1942 and he died January 24, 1992. Survivors include their son, Floyd Thomas (Tommy) Richardson Jr. and spouse, Cathy, of Warren; two daughters, Jennifer Reilly and spouse, Mickey, of The Woodlands, Texas; Robin Williams and spouse, David, of Hot Springs; a brother, Bill Abernathy and wife, Peggy, of El Dorado; seven grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren who lovingly called her GG; and host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a grandson, Daniel Kyle Williams. She was a member of First Baptist Church where she was a choir member for 68 years. Soloist, pianist, and interim choir director were duties she performed over and over. In later years she was honored at First Baptist when they celebrated "Miss Abbie" Day. For over 50 years Miss Abbie sang the national anthem for the Memorial Day ceremonies on the Bradley County Courthouse square. She hosted a radio show, "Abbie Sings," on KWRF in the 50'd and 60'd by remote control from her own home and recorded a long-playing record, "Isn't It A Joy." "The Kitchenettes," a singing group comprised of her close friends, Katherine Russell, Jerry Smalling, Pauline Cash and Abbie, entertained at many functions. She is most remembered for her willingness to sing and/or play for countless weddings, funerals, and civic meetings enjoying all kinds of music - religious, classic, fun, love songs, ditties - laughing music, crying music, comforting music, GOOD music! All with beauty and radiance. She was a 50 year member and past president ofGFWC (Warren Woman's Club), past president of Chapter AF, PEO, life member of the PT A, and organizing Regent for Captain Robert Abernathy Chapter of the DAR. Visitation will be Tuesday, March 27, 2012 from 6-8 p.m. at Frazer's. Funeral services will be Wednesday, March 28, 2012 at 10 a.m. at Frazer's Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery. Memorials preferred to First Baptist Church, 310 S. Main, Warren, Ark. 71671 or Bradley County Veterans Museum, 210 N. Main, Warren, Ark. 71671. Online guest register www.frazerfuneralhome.com.