James “Jim” E. Askew
July 22, 1931 – October 18, 2016
James Edward Askew “Jim” was born on July 22, 1931, to John and Maude Irene Farrar Askew. He went to his eternal home on October 18, 2016. Jim was a sweet, Godly, generous man to his family and many friends.
Jim grew up in Opelika, moving from LaGrange, Ga., at the age of 5. He graduated from Clift High School in 1949 and went on to Auburn University to earn a degree in education. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the army for the TOTC program and served for two years both in the United States and overseas. He rose to the rank of first lieutenant before his return entered Auburn University again to earn a degree in pharmacy in 1958.
During this phase of his life, Jim courted and won the affection of Barbara Ann Thompson, his wife of 59 years. After a brief career in pharmaceutical sales, he moved his family back to Opelika where under his mentor Lewis Sponsler he began practicing pharmacy. He was given the responsibility of managing Professional Pharmacy, eventually buying and re-naming the business Jim’s Pharmacy. It was a true family-owned pharmacy, where his wife and children worked beside him at some point over the years. Later in his career, he worked with Roger Burnett at Thomas Pharmacy. Jim worked a total of 56 years in the pharmacy practice. He was an excellent, caring pharmacist who loved his work and the people he served.
Jim was a deeply committed Christian man who loved his church and his choir family at Trinity United Methodist Church. He was a choir member there for 47 years and served on boards and committees there.
Jim is survived by his loving wife Barbara, who nursed and cared for him tenderly and patiently over the last four years. They have raised five children, Sabrina (Ben) Poe, Shane (Monica) Askew, Joanna (Dave) Davis, James Scott (Wendy) Askew, and Michael (Renee) Askew. He delighted in his 10 grandchildren and one great-grandson. His siblings are John (Carol) Askew, Jerrell Askew and Maxine (Huey) Mann. His sister Margaret and his sister-in-law Ginny predeceased him. He also has many nieces and nephews who loved him.
Jim is so loved for his Godly example to all, his generosity, kindness, wonderful sense of dry humor and gentleness. We never heard him say “I don’t have time” or ”we can’t afford it”, even though sometimes he couldn’t afford something for us. For his example, we will always be grateful. He dearly loved all of his family members.
Flowers will be appreciated or please make donations to the Alzheimer’s Association, Trinity United Methodist Church or the charity of your choice in Jim’s memory.
The family especially appreciates the care given by Paulette, Synergy Home Care and Compassus Hospice Care.
Services for Jim were held on Saturday, October 22, 2016, at Trinity United Methodist Church. Visitation began at 9:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. The service followed at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary. Interment was at Garden Hills Cemetery. Pall bearers were Jim’s grandsons and a son-in-law.
Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.
www.jeffcoattrant.com