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Joseph Ashley Obituary
Ashley
Machinist Mate 2nd Class Joseph Allen Ashley (U.S.N.), a lifelong resident of Manchester, Ohio, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, Jan. 9, at the age of 24.
Joey died as a result of se vere head injuries he sus tained when the nuclear submarine U.S.S. San Francisco, home-based in Guam, ran aground while out on ma neuvers in the South Pacific.
He leaves parents, Daniel and Vicki Ashley of Manchester; brothers, Daniel Jr. (Dawn) of Canal Fulton, PFC Benjamin (Kati) of Fort Bragg, N.C.; grandparents, Joseph Jr. and Helen Ashley of Reedy, W. Va., Rev. Dallas and Ellen Smith of Harrisville, W. Va.; aunts and uncles, Linda June (Ashley) Fleisher of Akron, Les (Debbie) Ashley of Doylestown, Jim (Ly neen) Ashley of Reedy, W. Va., Dallas Jr. (Teri) Smith of Ross ville, Ga., Alfred (Kathy) Smith of Mason, Ohio, and Aaron (Barb) Smith of Manchester. He also leaves many close and loving cousins, shipmates, and friends.
Joey was a 1999 graduate of Manchester High School, where he was a member of the marching band and was also a member of Boy Scout Troop 118. After graduation, he chose to follow his father's footsteps and joined the Navy in 2001. He was also a member of both the Canal Fulton Baptist Church and the Akron Baptist Temple, and frequented many other churches in the area. Wherever he was based, he found a church to attend. Joey never met a stranger. His personality captured and affected each of us in its own way, and his memory will remain in our hearts forever. Joey was loved by all who knew him and we are all blessed to have had him in our lives, even for such a short time.
Dan and Vicki and family would like to thank everyone for their overwhelming outpouring of love, support, and prayers during this very difficult time.
Funeral services will be Saturday, 8 p.m., at the Akron Baptist Temple, 2324 Manchester Rd., with Pastors George Stitz and Dallas Billing ton officiating. Friends may call at the AKRON BAPTIST TEMPLE ON SATURDAY, 2 to 7:30 p.m. Further services will be held Sunday in Spencer, W. Va. Bur ial with military honors will be at Fox Cemetery in Reedy, W. Va. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to JOSEPH ASH LEY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP, in care of Manchester High School, 437 W. Nimisila Rd., Akron, Ohio 44319. (Swigart-Easterling, 330-854-2356.)
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Ashley
Sponsored by www.usssanfrancisco.org.
CDR Kevin Mooney, USN (Ret.)
January 9, 2025
20 years on Petty Officer Ashley, you are never forgotten.
Jon Underwood HM2(SS/FMF)
January 7, 2025
God bless you Joey! Twenty years have passed and we still appreciate the commitment, the pride, the honor you carried with you as you helped in protecting our country. I will never forget you and all that you stood for. Fair winds and seas brother! God bless your family as they must be so proud of you. Keep a zero bubble!
FTCS(SS) Rust
January 8, 2024
Thank you for your service. You are not forgotten. I was in sub school when this happens and I think about the accident and you every year on Jan 8.
Paul G. Smith (Former RM2(SS)
January 24, 2022
RIP my Brother of the Phin.
Tim Brown
January 9, 2022
To our eternal Father we have committed your soul. We will remember you, brother sailor, until we join you in His presence.
Bryan Barnes
January 9, 2022
Ashley, you are Never Forgotten my brother. It was a pleasure serving with you and sharing prayers with you. God Bless you Shipmate.
ST1(SS) DV James Ragsdale
January 9, 2022
RIP brother Submarine Sailor prayers for the family
Andrew Brown
January 8, 2021
On this, the anniversary of the incident, I have to say hello, brother. You are not forgotten. I may not have served on the same boat, but I know you to be a brother by the fish on your chest. Rest easy, we have the watch.
Jerald L. Jones
September 5, 2020
I never new Joseph but as a long time nuclear submarine sailor I can only offer my condolences to his family. I live in Russellville, Brown County, Ohio not far from Manchester. If there is anything that I can do to help just let me know.
Fair winds and following seas Joseph.
Jerald L. Jones
USS James Monroe, SSBN622
Stephen Aumen
September 5, 2020
BZ Joey, RIP, we have the watch.
Ian Waterman
September 4, 2020
Rest your oar Sailor, we have the watch. Stand relived
ET1 (SS) Tom Jordan, USS TUNNY SSN 682
September 4, 2020
Very sorry for your loss. I never served with him, but most submariners know his name. You are in my thoughts.
DENNIS STIFFLER
September 4, 2020
Hey Cooter, your shipmates and the entire submarine force remember your sacrifice. You are greatly missed. I will see you in Heaven. Your friend.
FT2 (SS) Kubas
February 18, 2020
It seems like yesterday that I heard the tragic news. Fair Winds and following Seas, brother. Rest your ore. We have the watch.
Todd Snow
February 18, 2020
May you rest in peace brother. EM2(SS) Todd A. Snow USS Archerfish (SSN 678) '92-'96
January 13, 2020
To my brother on eternal patrol...wow - 15 years past...I was out of the Navy about 8 years when this happened. I still remember this like yesterday.
v/r
Tom Rarrick
Former RM2(SS) Plankowner
USS Montpelier (SSN-765)
Dennis Stiffler
January 12, 2020
Just checking in on you Cooter. Saying hello to Mom, Dad, and family and friends. Your sacrifice is not forgotten in your service to your Nation. May the Good Lord bless and comfort your family and friends...Amen
Jerald Jones
October 27, 2019
My deepest condolences to the family of Joseph Ashley.
I am an old submariner who has been gone for many years but still remember being there. I loved the boats that I was on and think fondly of those days.
Hopefully Joseph felt good about the job he was doing because it is a needed and necessary job in our modern world of constant warfare.
Again, my heartfelt condolences.
Jerald L. Jones
ET1, RC Div LPO
Stephanie Ashley
October 8, 2017
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief mother we will not forget Joey and I forever will keep reading about him to get to know him I wish I could've mt him!
Love,
Stephanie Ashley
Stephanie Ashley
September 8, 2017
In loving memory of a wonderful brother. We will love you and miss you always. I really wish I could've saw you before you went to meet the lord forever.
Claire Bartek/gilleg
May 29, 2017
Often I think of Ashley and his smile. He always made a big deal about my cooking which made me feel pretty darn good. Bless him and his family. Thankyou Ashely for your sacrifice in the service of our country.
Tim Maglione
May 8, 2017
Been 2 many years now brother...still always think of u.see u 1 day. :)
Sam Nigro
May 8, 2017
SUBMARINES
by: Samuel A. NigroMDUSSGEORGEWASHINGTONSSBN5981961-65
circa 2008
Submariners humanity of the crushing
compelling congealing deep.
Volunteers for danger strength and sweat
Close quarters crewmen in endless solidarity
Committed to unquenchable consciousness
in pressures of glorious magnitude
With necessities of Truth, Oneness, Good and Beauty (prudence) and
Bewildering internal squealing sounds of crushing steel Sacrifice Freedom Peace (justice)
awash in the Trinity of Matter Form Being (strength).
Spirit creatures compressed in Solid Liquid Gas (dignity).
Body Blood Spirit Sacraments of the world's tempestuous Seas (courage).
Ultimate power Communions of Life Fire Love (wisdom).
Ready (Stand by!) to unleash viscious hell to keep evil from souls (integrity)
by the roil of war scaring the Pacific and all the oceans out of the enemy (unity)
and shedding tears to toll the bells.
Brothers of the Dolphin giving Life Liberty and Pursuit of Happiness for all (spirituality)
in the deepest reality of pure blessings beneath the Seas (purpose).
Submariners are held by the hands of God
clothed to grasp topside deck bulwark overhead
port starboard fore and aft
blazing trails in the Seven Seas
illuminating the most intense dark of the Universe...
And, having been there
will rest their oars
and forever sail the Eternal Patrol.
Submariners know the Spirit means:
the sacred ritual liturgy of life in Submarines.
(And that covers it all;
there is no room for anything else.)
Thank you.
A Sailor's Prayer
Dennis Stiffler, YN2(SS)USN(Ret.)
May 7, 2017
Hey Cooter..we're still here. We didn't forget you. The men and families of the submarine force will always hold your memory in honor as we remember your sacrifice. May the good Lord comfort your family, friends, and shipmates as your memory lives with them...Amen
Kerry Tilton
April 14, 2017
It's been twelve years now... and I still remember where I was, what I was doing, and how I felt when I heard the news. This evening, I just now happened upon this link... and all the great memories I had of my time on board made me smile so... but then faded when I thought of what her crew went through beginning on January 8th, 2005. I still can't fathom how truly horrible it must have been for that fine ship and crew to endure.
I left San Francisco in 1990 but it seems like yesterday I was there... the names, the faces, and all the fond memories I have to this day. In my 22 years in the Navy, on five different boats, I NEVER served on a finer ship, with a finer crew, than I did on board San Francisco. The professionalism, the training, the camaraderie, and the level of knowledge of all on board was superb.
It is readily apparent to me that the excellence I experienced while on board was carried on... and that the crew on board that day was as fine a crew as had ever served on her.
My thoughts and prayers continue to go out to Petty Officer Ashley, his family, and to all of my fellow shipmates of the USS San Francisco.
God Bless you...
Very Respectfully,
RMC(SS) Kerry P. Tilton
Jan 1987 - Jan 1990
Brian B
January 27, 2017
Worked at Norfolk Naval Shipyard on San Francisco, I was laying in Main Condensing Bay doing inspections on 9/11/01, a sailor walked through and told us that a plane had hit the twin towers in New York. I remember looking at my watch, it was 9 o'clock. His name was Ashley, won't ever forget that either. God Bless you sailor, thanx for your service. See you on the other side.
Darren Teague
June 1, 2016
I never met you in person but you have had a profound impact on my development as a submariner and a man.
I joined the navy in September of 2008 after graduating high school.
after the 8 weeks of basic training in great lakes, I left on a plane to be shipped to basic enlisted submarine school in Groton, CT.
while I was there, I enjoyed the easiest job I've had in the navy thus far, all I had to do, was not get in trouble and learn with the added duty of standing watch every 6 days.
my first time standing watch inside Darby Hall, I noticed a small memorial to a past sailor along with some uniform items. it was MM2(SS) Ashley's memorial.
I would always come back to that spot and read and examine everything about that memorial. being in the radioman pipeline, I only got to be there when I was standing the petty officer of the deck watch on my duty days.
after almost 8 years and lots of research about what happened I realized that being a submariner really does take a higher caliber person to exhibit the kind of bravery that is required when things take a turn for the worse...500 feet below the surface of the ocean and hundreds of miles away from help. with tons...I mean tons...of training and the trust you have to put into the men to your left and right, that you can accomplish anything in the face of extreme adversity.
Rest in Peace MM2(SS) Joseph "Cooter" Ashley, your memory is not forgotten.
ETR2(SS/IDW)
USS BREMERTON (SSN 698) 2009-2013
Jason Riley
May 18, 2015
ET2/SS from USS La Jolla SSN-701. Your honor runs deep. Myself being 19 and a QM with those charts were very stressful as the what if. May God bless his family.
San Francisco Tough
Patrick Shaw
August 25, 2014
I still miss him,
I had the true pleasure of training Joseph Ashley. I was his LPO when he came aboard the USS San Francisco. It's hard to believe we're coming up on 10 years since that tragic day. I left the ship just six months prior to the accident. To know MM2 Ashley was to know an extremely intelligent young man. He was a little slow to starting line , but when his engine started there was no stopping him. He had an incredible Michael Jackson dance routine down to a science. He loved to learn. He had dinner with me, went to church, and rode motorcycle next to me. I'm sure if he be living today that he would be the chief or senior chief. He was on the fast track. I hope someday to see in them to Joe's with Ashley in heaven. For I know where to look amongst all the other submarine veterans that have gone before us.
MM1(SS/DV) Retired: Patrick S.Shaw
Jeremy ET1(SS)
July 2, 2014
Always in our hearts and forever remembered by those with fish on our chests and those that wear this uniform, as our brother on eternal patrol.
"There is a port of no return, where ships
May ride at anchor for a little space
And then, some starless night the cable slips,
Leaving an eddy at the mooring place...
Gulls, veer no longer. Sailor, rest your oar.
No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore."
-Leslie Nelson Jennings
February 5, 2014
I wish I seen my brother before he died
Mike Pace MM3(SS) ret.
February 1, 2014
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
January 10, 2014
In "Tales of the South Pacific", James Michener wrote: "I dragged my gear down to the shore and saw the submariners, the way they stood aloof and silent, watching their pigboats with loving eyes. They are alone in the Navy. I admired the PT boys. And I often wondered how the aviators had the courage to go out day after day, and I forgave their boasting. But the submariners! In the entire fleet, they stand apart."
The dead are not dead. Joey lives in us all, in all submariners.
---Samuel A. Nigro, MD, USNR, Medical Officer for SSBN 598 Gold and Squadrons EIGHT, TWO AND DEVELOPMENT GROUP TWO, 1961-1965.
January 9, 2014
Tragic Mountain Clash
Must remember a fallen shipmate today, tragedy under the sea stole his life away. Submarine submerged making its best speed; rams into a sea mountain jolting your knees. Mighty ocean water immediately the worst enemy. Safe the ship and crew all hands react instinctively. Seconds tick by and each one seems like a hundred years, damage control efforts learned and applied will work here. Submarine and her crew, so severely crippled, doggedly fight just to come home. Precious shipmate has suffered fatal injuries; his oar is at rest but he's never alone. Shipmates of his forever; we now remember MM2 (SS) Joseph A. Ashley his name forever written on our honor roll; this eighth day of January 2005 when he tragically departed from us, at sea aboard the USS San Francisco (SSN 711), on his eternal patrol.
Fred Haydt
January 8, 2014
Rest Your Oars.
MM2(SS/DV)
SSN 705
Josh Wamser
October 4, 2013
Thank you, Shipmate.
Gary Best (DCC USN retired)
September 20, 2013
I was the one who had to notify Mr. and Mrs. Ashley in the middle of the night. My thoughts and prayers go to the Ashley family still all these years later. RIP shipmate!
Art Pruitt
July 15, 2013
RIP Shipmate
STSCS/SS/MTS USN Ret.
Bill Synk
March 23, 2013
Everyday the submariners are out there. We all owe our
past & current freedom for the vigilant service they
perform.
His life was not in vane.
Bill Synk STS 3 (SS)
neavoda huffman
February 22, 2013
i feel so sorry
February 3, 2013
Joey was a special man born for a special purpose in life! He lives here with us in our hearts and memories even tho' he's gone to another and better place! Thank you Joey for ALL that you were and did!!!
Don Reynerson
December 25, 2012
I was also a Machinist Mate MM1(SS) and retired in 1980 as a LCdr ED also qualified in submarines. My son qualified in San Francisco as a young Naval Officer. So we have connections with this fine sailor in many ways. His service is recognized and he will always be remembered as a brother in service that is the most demanding that can be accepted in ot out of the US Navy. God bless you all and Xmas blessings.
Paul Boucher
December 18, 2012
Still doesn't seem possible.....I recall, Joey running around our house, seems like it was yesterday. Thoughts and prayers are still with your family. I sincerely loved that 'lil guy!!
George Navarre
December 17, 2012
Remembering, always remembering, brothers of the 'phin who have crossed over and maintain the bridge for those of us on this side. I look forward to the day when we slap each other on the back and swap sea stories, and strike out to find that never empty coffee mess. Rest your oar sailor, double up all lines.
Ed Anderson
November 12, 2012
Fair winds and following seas.
submarine disabled vet
Jon Underwood HM2 (SS/FMF)
November 9, 2012
You will never be forgotten shipmate. Our gratitude and love for your conviction to our country will never wane. Keep a zero bubble my brother.
FTB1(SS) Jay Fisher
November 8, 2012
"There is a touch of the pirate about every man who wears the dolphins badge." I didn't know Joey, but am proud to say he was a brother of the "phin". Every account showed that he was a wonderful man. Fair winds and following seas, brother.
Daniel Comstock
July 23, 2012
May God bless you, "Joey" Ashley.
Joseph Volkmann
July 15, 2012
A lifelong friend and a submariner, himself, sent me an account of the tragedy that took Joseph Ashley's life. My heartfelt condolences to the parents and family of this brave young soul.
March 21, 2012
Fair winds and following seas shipmate
Dave Teed
USN RET
A M
February 6, 2012
Still thinking of you Joey!
Robert Wade
January 26, 2012
So many years later, GOD BLESS THE ASHLEYs. Your sacrifice was not in vain.
May God bless and keep San Francisco SSN711.
John 3: 16
Jack Downey
December 22, 2011
When I was qualifying submarines on the USS Los Angeles SSN 688 my COB (Chief of the Boat) asked me in one of my final interviews who MM2 Ashley was. I was proud to know his story and what happened on that fateful day. It saddens me to know that something like that could happen, but it was something we trained for every day. I just wanted to say that I often think of the sacrifice "Joey" made and I am honored to consider myself one of his shipmates. Thank you for your sacrifice.
STS3 (SS) Sandy Jack Downey USS Los Angeles SSN 688 (2005-2009)
d d
February 10, 2011
Jo
Kim Kreitz
January 27, 2011
Dear Vicki and Dan,
I can't believe it's been 6 years since Joey's accident. I'm so sorry for your family's loss. I can't imagine how hard this must be for you. I have such fond memories of your family when our children were young and growing up in Manchester. I remember Sunday mornings at Comet Road Church; it was so nice to see your family all there - mom, dad and 3 little blond-headed boys. May God bless your family. May you find rest and peace knowing that you will be with Joey again in heaven. I miss seeing you and hope you're both well.
Melissa
January 11, 2011
Still think of you and your family often especially this time of year. Just got to talk to an old friend from the San Fran last week. More fun stories :))Take care of yourselves!!
Submarining was his life and passion
Dan & Vicki Ashley
January 9, 2011
January 9, 2011
After six years we still miss you so. Seems like just yesterday. There are so many friends and family that still honor you for giving your all. You will never be forgotten. We know Freedom is not free. Fair winds and following seas on your Eternal Patrol. Mom & Dad
Jo Edmondson
September 13, 2010
Hi,
I am the wife of an A ganger. We are on our second boat, and my husband's out on patrol now. I came across Joey's eulogy while looking for some inspiring words. What an inspiration Joey must have been to his family and his crew. What an inspiration he must continue to be for those who are and will serve aboard the San Francisco. I didn't know Joey but, after reading his story, it is strikingly similar to that of my husband. We are from NC and my husband, like Joey, is a good ole country boy as well as a Bocephus fan. I just wanted to let you all know that Joey will never be forgotten among the submarine force, and neither will you. We are a tight knit family and we take care of each other. May God continue to bless and keep you and may Joey watch over his fellow A gangers serving in the deep blue.
Velvet Boyce
July 12, 2010
Please except my sincere condolences. Ashley is always in my thoughts and prayers, he and my brother John Boyce served together aboard the San Fransisco and were close. He will never be forgotten and is much loved and missed.
M. Underwood, HM2(SS)
May 1, 2010
Bless those who serve beneath the deep,
Through lonely hours their vigil keep.
May peace their mission ever be,
Protect each one we ask of thee.
Bless those at home who wait and pray,
For their return by night or day.
Bless Joey. He is eternally vigil to those he loves, and the country he adored.
Joe Sagnis
May 1, 2010
Prayers, blessings and eternal gratitue to the memory and service of Joey. I was a SSN-711 A Ganger from 82-86 and I met a San Francisco crew member here in NY 6 months after the incident. He had just left the boat prior to the accident and he spoke highly of Joey. He will live in our hearts and memories forever. God Bless the Ashley Family and profound thanks for your son's service to the Sub Fleet and the USA. Fair winds and following seas Joey. BZ
April 30, 2010
Dear Ashley Family,
I didn't know Joey personally, however being a former submariner I just wanted to send my prayers along
to you.
Don Werstler, MSC(SS), USN(Ret)
John McGunnigle
April 18, 2010
My warmest regards
J. E. McGunnigle
Rayvyn
March 13, 2010
It's been over 5 years since that day and Joey is still not forgotten and never will be. I've worked on the Uss San Fran when It came in for a DMP(Depot Modernization project)in PHNSY back in 1988. It is a magnificent boat. When you think of Uss San Fran 711, you will always think about cooter... RIP Joey
B. A. Sims
March 7, 2010
Rest in Peace Joey
An ol' a-ganger SSBN(610)
Melissa
January 10, 2010
It really has been five years now? Hard to believe. I have heard so many great stories about Cooter and the San Fran Gang. Always makes me smile through my tears when I think of Joey. I hope it still gives y'all comfort that none of us will ever forget him either!!!
Stacy Smith
January 9, 2010
Hard to beleive you have been gone this long Joey!! I miss you!! And how I would love to hear that horn!! May you rest in peace!! Let's all just take a minute and remember our good ole country boy today!!! I love you!!
Luke Burgess
January 9, 2010
Its been five years. We miss you buddy. Gone, but not forgotten.
EM1 (SS) Luke T Burgess.
January 9, 2010
Five years now. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't pause and remember. Thoughts and prayers are ever with you.
LT Alec Beecroft, USN, SSN 711
October 16, 2009
Dan & Vicki.
We are so often reminded of Joey. He remains alive in our hearts. Continuing to pray for you both.
Love,
Chuck & Mary Doris
tim maglione
October 15, 2009
im glad to see that no one has forgot joe and im also glad to see that this site will be here for all time so every1 can know of joey ashley. :)
Chuck & Mary Doris Boucher
February 24, 2009
Dan & Vicki,
The years pass by, however, we still think of & remember Joey. Our prayers & thought continue for both of you & the family. We love you!
Linda Kennedy
February 20, 2009
Mr. and Mrs.
Much time has passed, but still I think of you and your family many times. Many hugs sent your way.
February 4, 2009
We grieve with thee.
Joe is on eternal patrol.
SKC(SS) John A. Cizmar, Sr. (Retired)
MMC Ronald G Duncan II
January 12, 2009
Dear Ashley Family:
We continue to have fond thoughts of Joey and we keep him in our prayers.
God Bless You
Randy Broughton MM3SS
January 11, 2009
I try to remember every year to add my thoughts about your son. As a former A-Ganger myself aboard the USS Gurnard. I wrote a poem my first time and have had many people write me from this site as to why we as submariners are so close not just from this country , but remarks of sorrow for your loss from across the world. Is funny because I myself can't really explain it in any way exceptit is like a family. We don't all get along perfectly and may even not like each other at times, but we are always there for each other no matter what. I still keep in touch with many of my old shipmates and can see that Joey's shipmates keep in touch with him in their own way. God is an awsome God even though it is easy for us to question him as to why something happens that we don't understand, he has a plan ( I myself wish I knew what that plan was at times) for all of us he needed Joey or he would not have called him home. I listened to a song the other day called Amazing Grace My Chains Are Gone on youtube it had various military photos and I couldn't help but to think of the families like yours that have paid the ultimate price for our safety and freedom. I hope you are at peace now and from the looks of it this guestbook is still going strong so God is still using Joey to get into others lives, God Bless you all and watch over all our guys and girls that are risking it all for us (not Glory or money).
custodio gonzalez
January 9, 2009
I know its been about 4 years and still remember the first time i met him back in january 2003. The first thing he said to me " call me cooter and welcome to A-gang, i was an honor to work side by side with him, he was also the only person to teach me how to run the deisel engine he named beauseafus, every year on this day pause for a moment to remember his memory and legacy he left behind
Tim Turner
January 8, 2009
Mr and Mrs. Ashley, I cannot image the grief you must bear. Every year, I take this time to remember your son and what has been lost. My prayers are with you still, time has not lessened the magnitude of his sacrifice.
Robert (Stump) Schamp
October 24, 2008
There is a port of no return, where ships
May ride at anchor for a little space
And then, some starless night the cable slips,
Leaving an eddy at the mooring place...
Gulls, veer no longer. Sailor, rest your oar.
No tangled wreckage will be washed ashore.
Leslie Nelson Jennings
"Lost Harbor"
ET1(SS) USS Bergall SSN-667
I continue to be awed by the bravery and compassion of the crew of this boat. Joseph Ashley will always be remembered in my prayers.
Ed Totanes
October 13, 2008
I remember medically checking-in Joey on the San Fran. I knew right away that he would be a special addition to the very young crew that was checking in to take the ship to Guam. His eyes lit when I told him the Navy would pay all of expenses to remove something that bothered him for a long time on the scalp of his head. He was very very grateful, and even had the pleasure/honor of meeting his parents when they came by to see him at Portsmouth VA. From that point on, he knew that the Navy would take care of him...and the Navy did. Now, the organization he truly loved will forever be grateful to his fateful service and will never be the same without him.
God never make mistakes, and He allowed this to happen for a special purpose. The sacrifices made on that sad day in January 2005 caused grief to many...but, the lessons learned have likely saved hundreds.
David Wellman
October 8, 2008
I was onboard for the collision and although I did not know Joey on a personal level, all submariners know how much you get to know and get to depend on your entire crew. Every person on board knew "Cooter" and he was someone you could never forget. Three and a half years have gone and barely a day goes by that I dont think of the events that took place that fateful day. He is a memory that should never be forgotten, and never will be by the people who were onboard. My condolences and love for all the people who lost a shipmate, a son, a father, or even just a friend.
- ET1(SS)
Gene M. Bonas
October 1, 2008
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Ashley:
Time has gone by so quickly that it is sometimes difficult to realize how long ago you lost your son. Please know that during the past few years, after my retirement as an elementary school principal, I continued to give talks about my submarine experiences to students ranging from the first grade to high school. I kept videos, pictures, uniforms, and a variety of momentoes from those days spent on patrol during the "Cold War." After the tragic event that took your son, I included a picture of the USS San Francisco in my talks to illustrate the inherent danger that we submarine brothers took for granted. By doing so, I've attempted to keep alive the memory of your son so that today's students know and respect the efforts of so many "bubble heads." Please know Joey is always remembered in my daily prayers, and I thank God for my submarine brothers who served and continue to serve in defense of our country.
Brian Wake MM1 (SS)
September 30, 2008
To the Ashley family, you are still in our thoughts and prayers.
Mike Osborn
September 30, 2008
Joey, Thank you for your service to your country. To Mr. & Mrs. Ashley, what a amazing son you raised and all the lives he has touched. SSN 648, SSN 717, SSN 711
Captain America
August 20, 2008
Ashleys, Just wanted to pay my respects.
Lucas Bartek
July 2, 2008
Brother,
It has taken too long for me to write you. Every time I walked through crews mess I would place a loving hand on the your table next to mine, every round of logs that actually took me to ASW bay gave me pause, any time I go to the bar and am paying for drinks I always buy you one, I stayed on board after the crash as an example to the junior guys who hadn’t shown up yet, not for myself but because I knew you would have stayed on board. Unfortunately I don’t remember when we first met anymore, that bump on my head from the crash kinda loosened up some wires. But I remember us being close, I remember that you and Paul and I were so close that we called each other "brother" because we meant it, we would have done anything for each other, we would have died for each other. It was tough coming back to the boat after my convalescent leave I had lost both of you; I can understand why Paul couldn’t stay. One of the most important things in my life is ensuring that I remember you and honor you as best I can. The world missed out big time when you left. Your life has left a lasting impression on mine and through me I attempt to impart that to others. Fair Winds and Following Seas.
Dean Jensen
May 29, 2008
Joseph may have been a stranger to me, but within the Sub Community we would surely have known friends of friends, even with a large separation in space and time. My condolences. I mourn a fellow 'bubble head' as I do for the brave ones who serve our country bravely.
Jason Pittman
May 29, 2008
I knew Joey, although I left the San Fran about two years before Joey left us.
I'd like to think that, as an officer, I had a positive effect on Joey's life and how he conducted business. But the truth is, Cooter was an amazing guy, and I know he had more of a positive effect on me than anything.
to this day I have a picture of Joey and Luke burgess topside, with Joey showing off his Confederate Flag tattoo. He was one crazy guy, but always the most dependable person you could ever want on your team.
When I was given orders to SOAC, I was designated to be a Navigator. The accident happened while I was at Dept. Head school, and I told myself I would keep Joey in my mind every time I reviewed a chart to make sure that nothing like this happened on my watch.
I think of Joey from time to time. I have no doubts he's smiling, wherever he is. He had a pure, caring soul. The kind that is hard to find, and even harder to lose.
Bless you, wherever you are Joey. You touched me in ways I won't forget. I only hope that I had half the effect on you that you had on me. You stand relieved, shipmate. We have the watch.
Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bidd’st the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
Bless those who serve beneath the deep,
Through lonely hours their vigil keep.
May peace their mission ever be,
Protect each one we ask of Thee.
Bless those at home who wait and pray,
For their return by night and day.
Tom Baughman
April 30, 2008
My sympathy to the Ashleys for their loss. My thanks for raising a fine son who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of our country. My deepest respect to Joseph Ashley for his service.
Tom Baughman MM2(ss)
USS Billfish SSN 676
1973 to 1976
Shea Brown
March 24, 2008
I once had a shipmate who told me, "It is guys like you why I reenlisted." I was speakless do to the lump in my throat! If I could have spoken, I would have said, "It is guys like you that I continue on for!" Now, I will never get to tell him! God Bless You!
John D'Alessandro
March 18, 2008
dear Ashley family, I hope from these entries in this guest book that it helps to know that we submariners past & present will not forget Joey's sacrifice for our freedom.I never met Joey but as a submarine veteran I know him. you will be in our prayers and thank you for Joey. we can never take the pain away but please know we are so proud to call him "Brother" and we will never forget.God Bless. U.S.S. BENJAMIN FRANKLIN (SSBN 640),U.S.S. BLUEFISH(SSN 637) 1987-1991
Zack Fleming
March 3, 2008
Prayers are still lifted for your peace as you watch over those still here. May God be watching over you.
ET1/SS Zack Fleming
Pete Dickinson
February 3, 2008
To a young American brother of the dolphin with greatest respect for his courage and with sincere sadness for his passing from an old Royal Navy submariner. Resurgam - they shall rise again.
Andrea Meyers
January 17, 2008
I did not know Joey. My brother did. They were on the same sub. I know this family had taken my brother in on visits and I greatly appreciate that. My brother is Timothy A. Meyers. Your son is greatly missed by many. You will always be in our hearts and prayers. Thank you!
JEFFREY CHRISTOPHER
January 10, 2008
Dear Joey,
It is me again, Jeff Christopher, the old room mate of yours while we was stationed on the Mighty San Francisco. I still think of you often, and in May I will be back home for leave. I will be contacting your Mom and Dad, so that we can meet up and talk. I will also be wrestling in a Open Tournament in May. I hope you are there in spirit my friend.
Linda Newman
January 9, 2008
It's been another year since you left us. And yet it amazes me how much you're still with us--this Sailor we never met who touched us so deeply in his death. Michael spent most of 2007 in the waters you now patrol. And when I would get scared, it was a comfort to know you were with him, just as I'm sure you're with all of your brothers. This fall we got to go see Michael's boat and I stood at the hatch looking down and my heart nearly broke as I thought of you. Michael came home for the holidays and arrived in full dress blues--white gloves and all. He dropped to his knee in the middle of the airport and proposed to one of the sweetest girls God ever made. And somewhere in the middle of all the hugs and tears I thought about the picture of you at your brother's wedding and my heart broke again for you and your family. You should have had that moment too. Your family continues to be part of our daily prayers and we think of you often. We're thankful for your service and your sacrfice. You were one of the good guys and will always be our hero. May God keep you and hold your family in his comforting embrace--especially Grandma Helen.
Nick Harmeling
January 9, 2008
Mr and Mrs. Ashley,
I got the pleasure of serving with your son while in BESS and MM "A" school in Groton, CT. The first i heard of this i had to triple check to see if that was who i really knew it was. It was definitally a sad day on my behalf and the loss of an outstanding brother!
STSCS(SS) Richard Breen, USN (Retired)
January 9, 2008
Rest in peace. A fellow submariner.
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