John Ashford

John Albert Ashford, 80, of Sherwood, passed away Friday, February 9, 2018 at Kindred Hospice, Colonel Glenn Nursing and Rehabilitation Facility, in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was born October 11, 1937 in Broken Bow, Oklahoma to the late Bobby Lloyd and Lorene (McConnell) Ashford.
John attended school in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. He earned several Continuing Education Credits in the Electronics Field at Cossatot Vocational Technical School, in DeQueen, Arkansas during the late 1980's. John served his beloved country as a Seaman and Gunners Mate in the United States Navy from 1955-1958, serving on the USS Toledo, out of Long Beach, California, during the Korean War Period. He remained in California for a few years after his Honorable Discharge from Active duty, but remained on Reserve Duty until 1963. During this time, he worked for Douglas Aircraft and the Ford Motor Company. He earned his Single-Engine Pilot's License while in California, before moving back home to Broken Bow, Oklahoma. He then moved to Nashville, Arkansas where he worked for many years with the Cable Television System doing installations and System Audits. He then spent approximately 15 years at Jan-Eze Plating, as the evening Shift Supervisor, before retiring in early 2009.
John enjoyed the game of Tennis for many years until an injury. He enjoyed visiting with friends and sharing a laugh. John joined the Baptist Church in Nashville, where he was a long-time resident, prior to living in Sherwood. He became closer to the Lord in his later years, and we know we will see him again.
John is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Millie Sue (Patterson) Ashford; his step-daughter, Nora Taylor (Tony); son, Mark Ashford (Lori); four grandchildren; his brother, Joe (Faye) of Dierks, Arkansas; and brother, James (Helen) of Broken Bow, Oklahoma; a couple of nieces and nephews; as well as many longtime friends.
Graveside services will be Friday, February 16, 2018 at 11:00 AM at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock, Arkansas with Chaplain Barry Walker officiating. Burial will be with Military Honors.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to a "No-Kill Animal Shelter" of the Donor's choice, in John's name.
This obituary in no way can capture the true essence and character of John. His light and laughter will be missed greatly by his wife and pet companion, Molly.
Online obituary at www.SmithFamiyCares.com