Mr. Oland “Big O” Abner, age 77 of Manchester, departed this life on Saturday, May 7, 2016 at the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky. He was born August 22, 1938 in Manchester, Kentucky to Johnny “Beerfield” and Mallie (Bundy) Abner.
He worked as a heavy equipment operator.
He leaves to mourn his passing his children: David “Tiny” Abner; Gene Abner, and Rebecca Abner Ferrell and these grandsons: Dennis “Buck” Abner and wife Rayann Caldwell, Carlos Brian Abner, Warner Mitchell Scalf, Ashton Abner, Mason Warner Ferrell and William “Little Bill” Abner; granddaughter: Chelsea Abner; great grandchildren: Brandon Abner, Kayla Abner, Kirsten Brumley and Andrew Abner; step great granddaughter: Courtney Caldwell; step children: Carrie Swafford and Timothy Swafford and one sister: Diana Abner Valentine and husband Coy.
He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. There were many who were like children to him. They all called him Pap. Oland was raised hard, he worked hard, he lived hard, he took care of his family, and he would help anyone he could. He loved his family and his friends. His great grandkids that lived with him meant a lot to him. He helped to raise them and they were his life. He meant something different to everyone and everyone loved him. He loved UK Basketball, John Wayne movies, reading Louie La’mour books, hunting, fishing, four-wheeling and being in charge. He was one of a kind and he will be missed.
He is preceded in death by his parents: Johnny “Beerfield” and Mallie Abner; 10 brothers and sisters; his wife: Laura Philpot Abner; his daughter: Lisa Abner Edwards; and his second wife: Shawanna Swafford Abner.
Funeral services for Mr. Oland “Big O” Abner will be held Tuesday, May 10, 2016 at 1:00 P.M. at the Rominger Funeral Home Chapel. Rev. Rick Gibson and Rev. Herbert “Tip” Minton will be officiating. Burial will follow in the Enjine Cemetery in the Blue Hole Community.
Visitation will be Monday, May 9, 2016 after 6:00 P.M. at the Rominger Funeral Home Chapel.
