Joe Van Abernathy of Gordonville, TX, passed peacefully from this earth on November 28, 2024, at the age of 78. Born on January 24, 1946, to Dean and Vera Opal (Felder) Abernathy in Elk City, OK, Joe's life was a testament to service, achievement, and a deep love for his family and friends.

Joe grew up in Sweetwater, OK, where he excelled academically and graduated as salutatorian in 1964. Following high school, he attended Panhandle A&M in Goodwell, OK, before answering the call to serve during the Vietnam War. In 1966, Joe enlisted in the Army, where he rose through the ranks with remarkable skill and determination. After completing Officer Candidate School, Airborne School, and Ranger School, Joe proudly served as platoon leader (B Company, 61st Infantry, 1st Infantry Brigade, 5th Infantry Mechanized Division), where he was awarded the Purple Heart, Silver Star, and Distinguished Service Cross, among other commendations. His courageous service left an indelible mark on the nation and earned him a place in the history of American heroism.

After returning from Vietnam, Joe continued his education at Southwestern Oklahoma State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Physics in 1971. He then embarked on a long and successful career at Texas Instruments, where his work in research and development of semiconductors earned him respect and admiration. Joe co-authored three patents and played a key role in building the Kilby Center, a state-of-the-art semiconductor research facility named after the inventor of the integrated circuit, Jack Kilby.

In 2001, Joe retired from Texas Instruments and moved to Lake Texoma, where he was never idle. Whether working cattle at a friend's farm, volunteering for local 4H shooting sports, or watching Disney movies with his grandchildren, Joe always found something to do. He was constantly starting new projects, like building an airboat, constructing a greenhouse for his wife, designing and building garden hardscapes, or designing high accuracy long range rifles. Along with his projects, Joe enjoyed hobbies such as fishing, boating, golfing, reading, shooting and gardening. He stayed active and engaged and cherished spending time with his family and friends.

Joe's extraordinary life was marked not only by his achievements but also by his respect for those with whom he served. He was inducted into the Legion of Valor in the mid-90s, the Army Officer Candidate School Hall of Fame in 2017, and the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame in 2024. In 2020, an Army training range at Ft. Jackson, SC, was dedicated in his honor. These accolades reflect a life lived with dedication, honor, and an unwavering commitment to service.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Justin Chad Walker (and wife Dotty) and Charles Dale Walker (and wife Ann), and his son Kevin Baker. He is survived by his beloved wife, Sue Ellen (Foos) Abernathy; his sister, Linda Abernathy of Stillwater, OK; his children, Brett Baker (and wife Bonnie) of Baldwin Park, CA, Stephanie Crank (and son Kingston) of Corsicana, TX, and Megan Crank Mainer (husband Michael and children Milo and Maizy) of Angleton, TX; his grandson Nathaniel Joe Baker (and wife Lauren and son Archer) of Jacksonville, FL, and granddaughters Tiffany Ann Goodman of Middletown, OH, and Amy Lynn Jackson of Sachse, TX, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Joe's life was a gift to all who knew him. His generosity, positive attitude, and love of life will forever be cherished. His legacy will live on in the memories he created, the lives he touched, and the example he set for future generations. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the honor of knowing him.

A private "Celebration of Life" will be scheduled at a later date.