Celebrating the life of
Bobby E. Ashley
April 16, 1938 - May 04, 2026
Bobby E. Ashley, passed away peacefully at home on May 4, 2026, at the age of 88.
Born on April 16, 1938, in Tifton, Bobby lived a life marked by hard work, strong faith, and a deep love for his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Barbara, and a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Bobby was employed by Savannah Electric and Power Company for 22 years. Following his time there, he pursued his entrepreneurial spirit by founding Ashley Maintenance, which he owned and operated until his retirement.
A passionate race car enthusiast, Bobby shared countless memories with his best friend, Lynn Wardlaw, through their love of drag racing, where they achieved numerous victories. In later years, the two continued their involvement in the sport by working with the National Hot Rod Association, staying close to the racing community they loved.
Bobby was a faithful and active member of Wilmington Island Methodist Church. His faith was central to his life, and all who knew him recognized his love for the Lord. He lived by a simple but powerful principle: “Treat others with respect and be generous without expectations of return.”
Bobby was preceded in death by his parents R. B. Ashley and Nassie Paulk and his son, Russell (“Rusty”) Ashley.
In addition to his beloved wife, Barbara, Bobby is survived by his daughter, Sherry Turner (Michael, Sr.); granddaughter, Ashley Fischer (Eddie); grandson, Michael Turner, Jr. (Anna); great-grandson, Turner Fischer; great-granddaughter, Chloe Fischer; sister-in-law, Ellie Coursey; nephews, Jeff Ashley (Cindy), Jamie Coursey (Kerry), and Doug Owen (Sheila); great-nieces and nephews, Peyton Woods (Whit), Laura Hughes (Patrick), and Zachery Owen; his brother, Russell Ashley; and his sister, Gail Downing (Richard)
Bobby’s greatest joy was his family, and they loved him dearly. His legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith will live on in all who knew him.
A public visitation will be held at Wilmington Island Methodist Church on Saturday, May 9th at 1:00 PM, followed by a Memorial Service at 2:00 PM with Pastor Doug Walker officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bobby’s memory to Shriners Children's, Hospice of Savannah, or Wilmington Island Methodist Church.
Barbara, Kathryn and I are so sorry to see that Bobby has passed away. Not being at Wilmington Island anymore, we don't see people we cared for anymore. We send our sincere condolences to you and your family. You and your family are in in our prayers. May God wrap his glorious arms around you and your family and give you peace.
- Frank & Kathryn Murray , Pembroke , GA
My deepest condolences to your family,I thank the Lord for letting me know Mr Bobby Ashley. A very kind person will be missed.
- Keith Walker, Hardeeville, SC
Bobby was my BEST FRIEND FOR EVER! I Will Miss You MORE THAN YOU WILL EVER KNOW! I can only Pray that we will see each other again .
- Richard & Ann Miller, Bloomingdale, Georgia
A candle has been lit!
Miss Barbara, Sherry and family- I'm so sorry for your enormous loss. Y'all were always like my "other family" growing up and I know how deeply Mr. Bobby will be missed. Sending so much love... Lisa
- Lisa Miller Stutzman , Bend , OR
Mr. Ashley could build anything he put his mind to. He made a bike that was called the pumping bike. All the kids would stand in line to ride the pumping bike, the wheels were off set making the bike go up and down. He also built a bike that would swivel the back end to the front end. Thanks for all the memories Mr. Ashley.
- George Sexton, SAVANNAH, GA
Dear Barbara, Sherry and Family, I am so sad to learn of Bobby's passing. He was a wonderful member of our church. Always there. Always faithful and steadfast. We will miss his smile and his way of making everyone feel welcome. You are all in my prayers.
- Emily Calhoun, Savannah, GA
A candle has been lit!
Bobby had such a sweet spirit and smile. We are so blessed that we had the privilege to spend time with him and the family making memories at Tybee Island. He was such inspiration to many people. He will be greatly missed. We love you guys ❤️
- Beth & Dale Preiser, Gloria Ambrose, McDonough, GA
David and I are so sorry for your loss. It was a privileged to have been your neighbor and friend for many years. We are praying for strength for the entire family.
- Andrea & David Howard, SAVANNAH, GA
The short time I knew Mr. Bobby was a wonderful time and exemplified the christian spirit! I enjoyed hearing stories of his time with the NHRA and his love for hot rods. He will be missed, but we will see each other again.
- Garrett Jennings, Savannah, GA
We share our deepest condolences for the families of Bobby Ashley, I am so sad to hear of Bobby's passing, he will be missed.
- William & Jimmi Taylor, Bloomingdale, Ga
Barbara, I'm saddened to hear of Bobby's passing. He was one of the kindest souls that I've met, and honest as the day is long. Everytime he spoke, I listened because he had so much wisdom, and he loved his family and he loved the Lord! I pray that our Lord brings you and your family much comfort in your time of mourning, and that He blesses all of you!
- Brian Welch, Sedona, AZ
Bobby was definitely one of a kind he and I worked together at Savannah Electric & Power Company Bobby was nicknamed Billy Joe after Savannah singer Billy Joe Royal!!!!! Hahaha !!! Bobby was a dear friend and brother he was well liked by all that knew him!!!! Bobby was a very hard worker and a gifted mechanic in everything he did. He was a great guy who will be missed very much. Barbra and family my payers are with you always sincerely Billy Miller
- william miller jr, Savannah, Georgia
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Islands Chapel
912-898-0900
- Visitation
- 1:00 pm on Sat, May 09, 2026
- Wilmington Island Methodist Church
-
195 Wilmington Island Road (map)
SAVANNAH GA 31410 - 912-897-2835
- Memorial Service
- 2:00 pm on Sat, May 09, 2026
- Wilmington Island Methodist Church
-
195 Wilmington Island Road (map)
SAVANNAH GA 31410 - 912-897-2835

