MSG (RET) Abel "Sing" Singletary died unexpectedly in Via Christi Hospital on 6 May 2015 in Manhattan, Kansas at the age of 83.
Abel is survived by his two daughters, Cherie D. Singletary and Michel L. Singletary, both of Junction City, Kansas; his siblings, Ruby Capps of Philadelphia, PA, Geraldine Vincent of Warner Robbins, GA, Odell Brown of Philadelphia, PA and Keith Brown of Eldorado, Kansas, his eleven grandchildren, three great-grandsons and one great-granddaughter. He is predeceased by his parents Abel Brown and Rebecca Singletary, his wife, Marian, his sisters; Wilhelmina Brown, Willette Brown, Lorene Brown; his brothers, Nathan Brown, Eugene Edward "Chick" Brown, Winston "Wint" Brown, Willie Jo Brown, Hyman Brown and Sam Brown and surviving fiance` Ruth Williams.
Abel was born 1 September 1931 in the County of Williamsburg, Township Ridge, South Carolina. Abel completed eleven years of primary education and enlisted in the Armed Forces. He married Marian D. Singletary, 6 Feb 1965 after moving to Ft. Huachuca, AZ. Abel advanced in his military career serving his country proudly during the Vietnam Era. Over a period of 3 years the couple welcomed 2 children into their home, and Abel set out about teaching them life skills with an emphasis on compassion and giving to others. His children remember him as a pillar of strength, hard working, kind hearted family oriented Dad, who encouraged them to pursue their dreams and ambitions.
Abel was accomplished in determination and perseverance and often excelled to the top of his careers, retiring honorably from 21 years of service in the Army, retiring from an advanced manager position at Beneficial Finance Company after 20 years and then from a career he held dear as a Juvenile Corrections Officer. He was a generous individual who loved to encourage others and lead by example, who was passionate about empowering young people to reach beyond their challenges and push their way to success and being an asset to the community. He was an avid golfer for many years, enjoyed camping, fishing and spending time among family and friends.
A viewing will take place Wednesday, 13 May 2015 from 6-8 pm at Penwell-Gabel Johnson Chapel, 203 N. Washington, Junction City, KS 66441. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, 14 May 2015 at 10:00 AM at the same location. Bishop Nathan Dudley will officiate the ceremony. All are welcomed to attend and celebrate Abel's life.
The family wishes to acknowledge with deep appreciation the many expressions of love, concern and kindness shown to them during this hour of bereavement. May the Lord Jesus Christ bless and keep you all, The Singletary Family.
The family will gather immediately following burial services at Riddle Hall, 2412 Rucker Road, Junction City, KS 66441.