James "Jim" Ashton

90, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, September 23, 2017 at Hope Hospice and Palliative Care Rhode Island in Providence, RI. He was born of the late Harry and Lillian (Burke) Ashton, one of nine children, on May 15, 1927 in Providence. Jim worked for many years as a mechanic for the State of RI until his retirement. He enjoyed being with his family and friends and liked fishing and gardening. Jim is survived by his son, James M. Ashton; daughter, Linda McCullough; three grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; brother, Charles Ashton; sister, Barbara (Ashton) MacKenzie; former wife, Ruth Ashton; and numerous nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his first wife, Eleanor (Hicks) Ashton; step-son, Earl "Skip" Nelson; and seven of his siblings. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, September 28, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the J.F. Skeffington Funeral Home, 925 Chalkstone Avenue in Providence, RI. Burial will follow at Acotes Hill Cemetery, Chepachet. Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donations to the American Cancer Society.

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