William Joe Ashford, Jr.

Mr. Ashford, age 92 of Charlotte passed away Tuesday August 26, 2014. He was born in Chester, SC son of the late William Joe Ashford, Sr. and Alma Hudson Ashford. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister, Helen Speer and brother, Gary Lee Ashford, Sr. Mr. Ashford was a U. S. Navy veteran, serving both in WWII and Korea, a charter member of University City UMC, Wesley Fellowship Class and a former member of East Mecklenburg Optimist Club. He began working for Commercial National Bank which became NCNB and retired as an assistant vice president in 1987 after 41 years of service. Mr. Ashford loved to play baseball and golf and was an avid fan of the Atlanta Braves and Duke basketball. Above all he was devoted to his beloved family and friends. He greatly appreciated the love and care he received from the numerous healthcare professionals during his long battle with Parkinson’s disease. The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00 P. M. Friday August 29, 2014 at University City United Methodist Church 3835 W. T. Harris Blvd. 28269 with a service to follow at 2:00 P. M. in the Chapel conducted by Reverend Doctor Ron Smith. Interment will follow at Sharon Memorial Park. Mr. Ashford is survived by his loving wife of 66 years Mary Beth Ashford, daughters, Linda Foster and husband Howard Foster, Jr. of Matthews, Leslie Payne and husband John Payne, Jr. of Monroe, five grandchildren, Jennifer Vargochik (Matthew Vargochik), Ashley Abernethy-Fischetti (Giovanni Fischetti), Lauren Abernethy, Jessica Payne and Brandon Payne. Also, survived by sister-in-law, Marge Ashford, nephews and neices. Memorials may be sent to University City United Methodist Church