He was born on December 13, 1946 in Florence, South Carolina to James A. Thigpen Jr. and Carolyn Vaughn. Ashley served and was decorated in the United States Navy. On March 20, 1976 he married Shelia Smith. Together, they had 1 son and 2 daughters. Ashley and Shelia enjoyed traveling together as well as spending time with family and friends. Ashley was retired from General Electric. Ashley lived and breathed Clemson athletics and bled orange and purple. Some of his favorite times out were playing golf, boating, beaching, and being Pappy to his grandchildren.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Shelia; son, Jimmy (Coty), daughters; Dara (Casey), and Brittany; 6 grandchildren, Reece, Rylie, Harper, Camdyn, Maddox, and Finley.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 12th at 2:30pm at The Woodstock Funeral Home Chapel, 8855 Main St. Woodstock, GA 30188. The family will greet friends in the Magnolia Room at Woodstock Funeral Home following the service.