Obituary of James Ashely

The sun rose on the life of Mr. James Taliferro Ashley on February 9, 1951 in Denver, Colorado when he was born to Silas Thomas Ashley and Catherine Ann Newbin. The second of seven children born to this union, James had four brothers, Gerald, Silas, Edward and Ronnie and two sisters, Melody and Mary. As a child, he was always playing basketball and singing in the church choir. His siblings remember, "He was the most loving brother and very protective of his family." Educated in the public school system, James graduated from West High School with honors. He had straight A's! Although there were multiple scholarships offered to him, James bypassed college to serve his country in the United States Army. James was united in marriage with Rebecca Celeste Ashley. To this union were born five children, LaTonia, (twins) Donnell and Jonnell, James Jr. and Christopher. They remember, "He loved to tell everyone, 'Who loves you, baby?' and was a fantastic Raiders fan." In later years, his grandchildren, Amber, LeNasia, Kiana, Emanu, Tiera, Adrionne, Zavier, Marley, Jayden, Idris and Darius were a special source of joy and pride in his life. They remember "Grandpa Ashley was very funny!" James worked as a laborer and supported his family with lots of hard work. He was known for dependability and being an excellent worker, always there and ready to help. In his free time, he enjoyed family and friends, entertaining company, watching "The Price Is Right" and "Judge Judy" on television and watching the Raiders play football. His best friend was Kushenberry. He was known for his generous heart by all of his friends. His favorite colors were black and silver (Raiders colors) and his favorite music was classical and Tevin Campbell. "He lived life to the fullest and would always make us laugh." "He was the most caring man we've ever known. He would literally give you all that he had if you needed it. He will be sorely missed! The sun set on the life of Mr. James Taliferro Ashley on January 14, 2014 when he passed into eternal rest. He is preceded in death by his father, and two brothers. Those left to cherish his memory include his sons, Jonnell (Lyzette) Ashley, Donnell Ashley, James Ashley, Jr. and Christopher Ashley, all of Denver, CO; daughter, LaTonia Ashley of Denver, CO; mother, Catherine Ashley of Sacramento, CA; brothers, Gerald Ashley of Denver, CO and Todd Ashley of Sacramento, CA; sisters, Mary Ashley and Melody Ashley, both of Sacramento, CA; eleven grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. Rest in peace...James