Jena Roland Abney

MYRTLE BEACH, SC – JENA ROLAND ABNEY, 47, passed away peacefully, Monday, August 23, 2021 at her residence in Myrtle Beach.

     A native of Aiken, Jena was the daughter of the late Frank and Betty Plunkett Abney. She was a 1992 graduate of South Aiken High School, going on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from Winthrop University. Having received a scholarship, she attended the University of Notre Dame. An award-winning artist, her work includes the Holley Dairy Farm mural displayed at the Aiken County Museum.

     After college, Jena joined S&ME, Inc. at an entry level position. Taking on a variety of roles and responsibilities, earning a Masters in Public Health (MPH) along the way, Jena ascended to the position of Industrial Hygiene Project Manager. In this role, she was responsible for overseeing industrial projects by coordinating design processes, budgeting and managing specialty staff.

     In addition to working full-time, she lived out her Christian faith through devoted friendships, and generosity of her time and talent. She was a long-time volunteer with Animal Rehabilitators of the Carolinas (ARC), eventually serving as President. She is remembered as “an amazing woman with such a big soul.”

     Jena retired to Myrtle Beach in late 2019, where she continued to share her quick wit, outspoken honesty and joy for life with many new friends.

     Jena leaves to cherish her memories five older brothers: Larry J. Abney (Norma), Aiken; Lt. Col. (Retired) Charles R. Abney (Karen), Oviedo, FL; Richard D. Abney (Kimberly), Aiken; Roger S. Abney (Lisa), Aiken; and Daniel E. Abney (Maureen), Charlotte, NC; and a host of nieces and nephews.

     Funeral plans will be announced at a later date.

     In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Creekside Wildlife Rescue via PayPal at [email protected] or Animal Rehabilitators of the Carolinas via PayPal at arcwildlife.org.

SHELLHOUSE – RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC