John Leslie Ashley

John Leslie Ashley went home to the Lord peacefully on Wednesday September 1st 2021 surrounded by loving family and friends. Those who knew him were recipients of his extraordinary selflessness. He was quick to greet everyone with kindness and generosity.

John was born in the town of Tullahoma TN to Movie and Nettie Ashley (Dodson) on February 4th, 1954 but he spent his childhood in the Lynchburg area. He graduated from Moore County High School in 1972 and three days after left for USN basic training in Orlando FL. He found his ticket to see the world as a seaman and completed many trips to exotic and faraway places aboard several USN ships. In 1976 he met the love of his life Kathy Bredeson while stationed in Seattle and they were married in 1977. The young couple spent the next 16 years moving from coast to coast as John was completing his career and going where Uncle Sam needed him. After his retirement from the Navy in 1992 they moved their young family to Adna Washington. There they settled in for the next phase of life. John spent the next twenty six years working in the maritime industry. He travelled the world extensively, the only continent he didn’t see was Antarctica. He worked on many different types of vessels including NOAA research ships, dredges, cargo ships, and cruise liners. He retired as a Chief Engineer onboard tugboats and barges for Crowley Maritime. Retirement brought the opportunity to travel for enjoyment. John and Kathy spent many happy days on the go. They enjoyed river cruises in Europe, excursions across the US in various RV’s, and following the grandkids around to attend their sporting events. They spent the last three winters having fun at their home in Sun Lakes AZ. He enjoyed the sunshine, learning to golf, and visiting with the many friends they have there.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Daryl Ashley, half brother Ray Thompson, and mother and father in-law Joy and Gordon Bredeson. He is survived by his wife Kathy, son Ryan (Becky), daughter Stephanie Maffeo (Alex), and grandchildren Preston Ashley, Lucas Ashley, Kaylee Ashley, Teagan Maffeo, and Adalynn Maffeo. He is also survived by his sister Beverly Mitchell (Tullahoma TN), sister in law Patsy Ashley (Woodbury TN), and sister in law Kyla Heintz (Raymond WA), along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or Disabled American Veterans Association in his memory.

Visitation at Sticklin Funeral Chapel on Wednesday September 8th from 11-1PM followed by graveside services at Claquato Historic Cemetery. Reception will be afterwards at Lintott Alexander Park in Chehalis WA.