Since receiving it from the wonderful researcher Glenda Brack who discovered it in the newspaper's archives, we've confirmed his service in the 47th Ala. Inf. [NARA M311] along with the service of his two brothers (mentioned below among his survivors). I'm posting this item here in hopes that a researcher with ties to the 47th Ala. and/or the Abernathy family can make use of it.
March 28, 1917 issue of the LaFayette Sun
"Death of Mr. J. W. T. Abernathy
Mr. Jas. W. T. Abernathy died at the home of his son, Mr. R. F. Abernathy, near Cusseta, last Monday. On Tuesday afternoon the remains were carried to the home of Messrs. W. D. and Lee Hunter, at Buffalo, relatives of the deceased, and the burial took place at 11:00 o’clock this morning at Macedonia, of which church the deceased was a faithful member. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. J. T. Satterwhite in the presence of a large congregation of relatives and friends.
Mr. Abernathy was one of the oldest citizens of the county, being in his 84th year. He leaves three sons: Mr. R. F. Abernathy, with whom he was living at the time of his death; Mr. S. M. Abernathy of New Orleans, La., two brothers, Mr. D. H. B. Abernathy of this county, and Mr. S. J. S. Abernathy of Palo Pinto, Texas. Also one sister, Mrs. Addie Dorman of Altoona, Ala. The deceased was a Confederate veteran, having served in Company I, 37th Alabama Regiment. [Correction, read: Company I, 47th Alabama Regiment]"
(Per “Survey of Cemeteries in Chambers County, Alabama” there is a tombstone in the Macedonia Church Cemetery that reads: “J. W. T. Abernathy, Aug. 3, 1833 – Mar. 26, 1917, Co. I, 47 Ala. Inf., C.S.A.”)
DHB Abernathy appears to be David H.B. Abernathy also of Company I, 47th Ala. Inf. [NARA M311]
SJS Abernathy appears to be Samuel J.S.Abernathy also of Company I, 47th Ala. Inf [NARA M311]