James Paul Abernathy

Mr. James Paul Abernathy, 83, of Hartwell, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family on Friday, December 26, 2025.

Born on April 22, 1942, in Atlanta, Georgia, he was the son of the late Ernest Hubert Abernathy and Annie Myrtle Pittman Abernathy. Mr. Abernathy graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1960 and then went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Education from Georgia Southern University and later received his Master’s and Specialist degrees in Education from the University of Georgia.

Mr. Abernathy devoted his life to education, serving students and communities throughout his distinguished career. He began as a teacher and went on to serve as Assistant Principal in Pembroke, GA and Jackson County. In 1972 he became Principal of Elbert County High School, where he served for 15 years. He went on to take on roles as Assistant Superintendent in Elbert County, Superintendent of Schools in Meriwether County, and ultimately as a Regional Director for Pioneer RESA. He continued to serve in retirement as both Math Tutor and Substitute Teacher for Hart County Schools as well as serving on the Board of Education. His leadership and commitment left a lasting impact on countless students, educators, and families across Georgia.

Beyond his professional career, Mr. Abernathy was deeply involved in his community. He was a longtime member of the Kiwanis Club of Hartwell and a strong advocate for the Hart County Imagination Library program. He was also a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Hartwell. For many years, he served as Deacon at the First Baptist Church of Elberton, GA and the Manchester Baptist Church.

In his personal life, Mr. Abernathy found great joy at the lake, especially spending time on the water enjoying boat rides with family and friends. After retirement, he and his wife, Jewell, embraced the opportunity to travel together, exploring destinations around the world and making cherished memories side by side.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jewel Abernathy; his son, David A. Abernathy (Alison) of Athens; his daughter, Missy A. Algood (Craig) of Elberton; and two grandsons, Hatton and Jack Abernathy.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Abernathy was preceded in death by a brother, Maxey Abernathy, and three sisters, Opal Sarro, Della Mae Smith, and Kathryn Franck.

Mr. Abernathy wished to be cremated. A service to celebrate his life will be held Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Hartwell, with Dr. Stuart Lang, Rev. Gary Purvis, and Rev. Len Strozier officiating. The family will receive friends following the service in the church fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Imagination Library, Hart Partners, 110 Benson Street, Hartwell, GA 30643, or to the Hart County Christian Learning Center, P.O. Box 448, Hartwell, GA 30643.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.stricklandfh.com.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Announcement courtesy of Berry Funeral Home.