James Robert Ashby

James Robert Ashby, 83, of Eufaula, Oklahoma, passed away Friday, May 13, 2022, at the Broadway Manor Nursing Home of Muskogee. Jim was born on May 12, 1939, in Eldorado, Illinois, the son of James Edward and Thelma Beaulean Ashby. He graduated from Eldorado Township High School and attended Lincoln Trail Junior College in Robinson, Illinois, receiving his Associates Degree in Industrial Engineering. He then received his management degree from Oscar Rose Junior College. On May 16, 1956, Jim enlisted in the United States Navy. He served in Vietnam, received the Combat Air Crew Wings Award and retired on June 16, 1975. On December 24, 1987, Jim married Sally L. Proctor. They were happily married for thirty-four years. Survivors include: his wife, Sally Ashby; son, Phil Ashby, of Muskogee, Oklahoma; stepson, Ronald Burnett of Wheat Ridge, Colorado; daughter, Melissa Epting and husband Shawn of Kansas City, Kansas; half-sisters, Eunice and Judy and grandchildren: Amber Sharp of Frisco, Texas, Bryton Epting, Haddie Epting and Kelton Epting all of Kansas City, Kansas. He is preceded in death by his parents; sons: James "Jamie" Clifton Ashby, Anthony "Tony" Mabrey and Timothy "Tim" Mabrey and granddaughter, Amie Ashby.