Myrtle I. Abney

Myrtle I. Abney, 76 of Grayling, passed away at home on Thursday, August 25, 2016.

Born in Williamsburg, MI on July 5, 1940, Myrtle was the daughter of Harold and Irene (Smith) Challender.  She grew up in Yuba and was a graduate of Traverse City Central High School.  Myrtle attended Ferris State University where she received a bachelor’s degree in business.

A longtime employee of Georgia Pacific in Gaylord, Myrtle was also the union financial secretary for many years.  She retired in 2003.

In retirement Myrtle and her husband, Jim enjoyed traveling extensively in their fifth wheel, including a summer they spent in Alaska.

Myrtle had an infectious smile.  She loved her family and treasured spending time with them.  She enjoyed sports, rarely missing the sporting events of her sons and grandsons.  At one time she was also a little league umpire.  Myrtle also enjoyed going on hunting outings with her family, mushroom hunting and collecting glassware.  She attended Grayling Calvary Baptist Church and at one time was an Otsego County United Way board member.

Surviving are her husband of almost 52 years, James F. Abney; two sons, Hank and his wife Sherri Abney of Grayling and Jimmy Abney of Grayling and his fiancée, Rebecca Sterling of Hermitage, TN; three grandsons, Hank, Derek and Noah Abney; her brother, Roy (Fran) Challender of Acme and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Bob and Harold Challender.

Myrtle’s family will remember her at a private family gathering.  Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions to Munson Hospice in Grayling.

Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service.  Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com