Henry "Hank" Stokes Ashley, Jr.

Henry “Hank” Stokes Ashley, Jr., 90, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 8, 2014 at Lake Taylor Hospital holding the hands of his son and daughter. For the family, he was Bing Crosby, John Wayne, Santa Claus, and St. Patrick rolled up into one amazing man.

Hank was born on September 14, 1923, and the world has been a brighter place since. He bravely served his country as a sailor in the Pacific Theater during WWII, and proudly served the citizens of Norfolk as a plumber during the birth of its skyline.

He is survived by the love of his life of over 65 years, Janie, and his adoring children Kathy, Billy, and Theresa. His legacy continues to grow beyond his beautiful life through his grand and great-grandchildren. One of his great grand-daughters, Helen, was born 10 weeks premature and cared for by the amazing staff at Children’s Hospital of The Kings Daughters. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to CHKD at https://www.chkd.org/Giving/Donate/.

Hank was admitted to Lake Taylor Hospital nearly four years ago. During that time, he was cared for by a dedicated and professional staff of nurses and doctors. He was treated with unyielding dignity and gentleness that deserves acknowledgement and praise.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, January 12, from 12-4 pm, at Smith and Williams Funeral Home 818 Norview Ave, Norfolk. The memorial service will be conducted at Christ the King Catholic Church, 3401 Tidewater Dr, Norfolk, at 12 pm, Monday.

Online condolences may be offered at www.smithandwilliamsnorfolk.com.