James William Ash

Jim was born on December 6, 1935 in Lebanon, TN to Oliver and Marjorie Ash. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he traveled the world and ultimately met the love of his life in Honolulu, HI. On June 17, 1958, he married Lynn Stratton.

After receiving his teaching degree from Middle Tennessee State in Murfreesboro TN, he headed west to California. He ended up in Santa Clara where he taught elementary school for over 30 years.

Jim had a passion for serving and giving back to Santa Clara (City Council, Planning Commission, Civil Service Commission; Service Organizations - American Legion and Elks Lodge; and the Veterans Memorial in Central Park). He was also a “Mr. Fix-it” man who could build things from the ground up. He was known for his thoughtful demeanor, his infectious smile, and his kind and compassionate spirit.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, James, his mother, Marjorie, his brother Bobby, and his sister, Dixie. He is survived by his wife Lynn, his three children, Dana, Lisa, and Travis (Wife - Raynelle), his brother Butch, numerous nieces and nephews, and several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, April 26th, 2021 at the Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary on Winchester Ave. at 11 o’clock a.m. Private burial to follow at Mission City Memorial Park at 12 o’clock p.m.