John Ashley

John Phillips "Phil" Ashley, 80, passed away at his home surrounded by family on November 2, 2024, in Graysville, TN.

Phil was born on April 8, 1944 in Chattanooga, TN, to Sinclair Ashley and Pollye Ashley. He graduated from Tyner High School in Chattanooga in 1962. He went on to attend the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga and the prestigious Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. His degree led to his career in the art field as a designer, illustrator and artist at various companies from Chicago to Chattanooga.

Phil married Lea, the love of his life, on September, 1984. They recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary.

A multi-talented artist, Phil was known for his metalscape sculptures and impressionist-based oil paintings. Phil's art was influenced by curiosity, mood and observation. Phil once said "I have no idea where the ideas come from. They just come to me. It's like an inspiration.".

Phil was a lover of nature, and frequently included nature in his art pieces. He enjoyed hikes through the woods and walks along the coastline in Maine. He and Lea enjoyed spending time at their home, which he designed, watching an array of birds, turkey, deer and chipmunks that frequented their property.

Phil is survived by his wife, Lea Ashley, his nephews Will Ashley (Jillian) and Philip Ashley (Azadeh), his sister-in-law Sue Ashley, three great nephews, a great niece, his beloved two cats Willy and Carl, as well as numerous friends.

Phil is preceded in death by his father, Sinclair Ashley Sr., his mother, Pollye Ashley and his brother, Sinclair Ashley Jr.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Phil's memory may be made to Hospice of Chattanooga: https://www.hospiceofchattanooga.org/ways-to-give