James "Jim" Ashley

James (Jim) Alvis Ashley was born on December 8, 1951 to Glenn Ashley and Margie (Schwitz) Ashley in Evansville, Indiana. He was a proud member of the Plumbers and Steamfitters U.A. Local 136 for 47 years, following in his father’s footsteps. He was a well-respected Journeyman Welder who held several certifications. He will be remembered as a highly skilled welder, a mentor, a teacher, and a man that loved his career.

He met his wife and best friend, Marilyn Ashley at Funky’s in 1975, even though she insisted incorrectly for many years that it was 1976. Yes Jim, you were right all along. They lived a beautifully full life of 49 years together (not 48 as Marilyn thought) surrounded with love by family, friends, and fur babies. He is surrounded by lots of wagging tails in heaven; leaving Kona in charge of taking care of Marilyn.

Jim loved riding his Harley, listening to jazz music, traveling, and boating as a member of the Mexican Navy. He enjoyed supporting his wife at many volunteering opportunities and sharing his time with his nephews, nieces, great-nephews and great-nieces, who lovingly refer to him as their ‘Great and Adored Uncle Jim’. His interest in cowboys and westerns began in his childhood and carried through his life. He never stopped learning and enjoyed the challenge of the most difficult crossword puzzles.

Jim was a lifelong member at Blue Grass Church where for many years he was a beloved supporter of the ACTS adult and youth work program, in which he enjoyed working to improve the homes of the less fortunate in our community.

He is survived by his wife and best friend Marilyn Ashley: sister Judy Rockwell (Doug): sister and brother in laws Linda Ward, Christy Braidy (Mark), Martin Fraser, George Collins (Janett), Hayden Collins (Sandra), and Dann Collins (Lindy): nieces Tisha McGinnis, Kelli Gattis (Jeff), Kayci Haberer (Patrick), Ashley Rockwell: nephews Mike Ward (Amanda), Dakota Collins, Blue Kurtz, Mark Barr (Elisha), Zane Collins (Samantha), Blake Collins, Dewayne Collins (Casey), and Corey Collins: great nieces and nephews Sarah Ward, Josh Ward, Addy Ward, Makenzie McGinnis, Jacob Somerscales, Max Gattis, Charlotte Haberer, Henry Haberer, and great-great nieces and nephews.

We would like to thank the angels that joined us on this journey: Dr. Chip Walsh, Dr. Bill Samm, Dr. Michael Koch, Dr. Edward Fox, Nurse Michelle with Dr. Fox, and Dr. Tamma: all the wonderful nurses, technicians, housekeeping, and food service on the 6th floor at St. Vincent Hospital: to Heart to Heart Hospice for the gentle care and guidance given: to the Prayer Blanket Ministry: to the Comfort Care Staff: to the special and many Schwitz & Worsdorfer cousins. A special thank you to our army of friends that have been there at a minute’s notice. You have all made a difference in our lives and we will always be grateful. You are all Angels!

Please join us in a Celebration of Life for Jim, scheduled for July 11 at City View at Sterling Square from 5-8 pm. A private burial will be held at Blue Grass Church cemetery, officiated by Pastor Mike Ward. Arrangements are being handled by Alexander West Chapel.

Condolences may be offered at www.AlexanderWestChapel.com