John Henry Askew Jr. died at his home at the age of 92 surrounded by loving family and friends. Mr. Askew was born in LaGrange, Georgia, and moved to Opelika in 1936.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John Henry Askew Sr. and Maude Farrar Askew; sister, Margaret Askew and brother, Jim Askew.
He is survived by his loving and compassionate wife of 43 years, Carol; daughters: Phyllis (Al) Boswell, Kathie Wallace; grandchildren: Emily (Andy) Fuller, Will Wallace, Tucker Boswell, Kate (Nick) Bishop; great grandchildren: Prudence Fuller, Hudson Boswell, Davis Boswell, Luke Bishop, Erik Bishop; sister, Maxine Mann; brother, Jerrell Askew; sister-in-law, Drucilla White; many nieces, and nephews.
After graduating from Clift High School in Opelika, Mr. Askew enlisted in the Army and was stationed in Las Cruces, New Mexico, for two years. Upon discharge from the Army, he was employed by Standard Coffee Company beginning his career in sales. He then went to work for Independent Life and Accident Insurance Company rising to the position of Vice President before he retired in 1994 after 43 years with the company. He also served as president of the Alabama Insurance Underwriting Association.
Mr. Askew was a very talented singer and was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church choir for many years. He also loved singing karaoke on Friday nights and sang every day at his home as well as the Elks Lodge until his health kept him from doing so. He was a member of the BPOE Lodge 1834 for 56 years and served as Secretary and was later elected Exalted Ruler (president). He was also a member of the Opelika Kiwanis Club for many years.
He loved and was an avid fan of all Auburn University sports and enjoyed cooking on his Big Green Egg for tailgating and entertaining in his home. He was well known for his fabulous, festive Christmas parties. His absolute favorite thing was being with his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, siblings and his many extended family members.
At the time of his death, he was a member of First United Methodist Church and the Poe-Cumbie Sunday School class.
The family gratefully acknowledges and thanks Mr. Askew’s caregivers, Linda Newsome, Carolyn Wilson, Angel Allen, Wendy Swiney, Cindy Darby and Enhabit for their assistance and care.
Mr. Askew’s service was held on Saturday, Aug. 20, 2022, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home with visitation one hour before the service. Burial followed at Garden Hills Cemetery. Donations can be made to First United Methodist Church of Opelika, John Clarke Perry Foundation, or the charity of your choice.