Richard Gene Ashe was born September 12, 1960 in Selmer, TN the son of Wilburn Gene and Linda Ruth Blakney Ashe.
He was united in marriage to Penny Smith on October 16, 1982.
Following graduation from McNairy Central High School, Richard began working for the City of Selmer. He later accepted a position with General Electric, where he worked for two years. Richard went to work for the Selmer Utility Department following a layoff from G. E., where he spent the next 42 years, rising to the position of Director. He served one term on the McNairy County Commission, and was recently elected to a second. Farming, being outdoors, and traveling were some of Richard’s favorite activities apart from work-he and his wife Penny had traveled to all fifty states. Richard formerly served as a Dixie Youth baseball coach and Cub Scout Pack Leader. He loved his work family and his customers, and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Richard was a member of the Fourth Street church of Christ in Selmer.
Richard departed this life on September 21, 2022 in Selmer, Tennessee at the age of 62 Years, 9 Days. He is survived by his wife of almost 40 years, Penny Ashe of Selmer, TN; his parents, Wilburn Gene and Linda Ruth Ashe of Selmer, TN; a son, Dr. Stephen Aaron Ashe and companion Dr. April Lao of Memphis, TN; a sister, Cynthia Droke and husband Jeff of Bethel Springs, TN; and his nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html
