His Life Story

For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. – II Timothy 4:6-8

James Gilbert Ashley, born on October 14, 1949, in Smith County, was the cherished son of James and Lora Ashley. He passed away on July 28, 2025, at Merit Health Wesley in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Gilbert was the eldest of three siblings and spent his formative years in Taylorsville, Mississippi, where he graduated from Taylorsville High School in 1968.

He embraced his faith early in life and was a dedicated member and deacon of Clear Creek Baptist Church. Gilbert's career began in the oil fields, and he later retired from Vescom Security, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 49 years, Polly Foster Ashley, his beloved mother Lora Ashley, his daughter Amy Ashley, and his Godson Zylon Hicks, all of Taylorsville, MS. He also leaves behind his grandson Amm McDaniel, his brother David Ashley and wife Patricia, and his sister Chris Guichet and husband Paul of New Orleans, LA, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and relatives. He was preceded in death by his father, James Ashley.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Clear Creek Baptist Church, located at 381 SCR 33, Taylorsville, Mississippi, and again on Sunday, August 3, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until 1:45 p.m. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the church, with burial in the church cemetery. Bro. John David King and Bro. Tim McNeil will officiate, with special music by Mr. LaCon Sheppard and Mr. Terry Jones. Arrangements are under the care of Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Taylorsville.

Active Pallbearers will be Ronnie Hull, LaCon Sheppard, Robert Hicks, Charles Yelverton, Kenny McDaniel, and Paul Simpson.  Honorary Pallbearers will be Zylon Hicks, Ricky King, Kevin Ford, Terry Jones, Stanley Todd, John Prestridge, Tim O'Rourke, David Tucker, Don Evans, David Blakeney, Wesley West, and Craig Lowery.

The Ashley family gratefully acknowledges and appreciates the love shown to us and all expressions of sympathy during our bereavement. The family wishes to acknowledge the excellent care provided by Merit Health Wesley, Merit Health ICU, Leila Benison Simpson. A special thanks to Pastor John David King and members of Clear Creek Baptist Church.