James Ashley Morris

1942 - 2024

James Ashley Morris

October 14, 1942 - June 3, 2024

James "Jim" Ashley Morris, 81, of Charlottesville, VA, passed away June 3, 2024, after a journey with dementia. Jim faced his diagnosis with hope, humor, and defiance.

Jim was born in Shawsville, VA, on October 14, 1942. He is preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Ruth Morris; and his brother, Terry Morris.

Jim is survived by his wife, Vicki; son, Jerry Morris, of Charlottesville, VA; two daughters, Eva James (John Stover), of Waynesboro, VA, and Ashley Seawell (Stoney Seawell), of Charlottesville, VA; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and brother, Gary Harris, of Elliston, VA.

Jim was known for his quick wit, sense of humor, mischievous smile and unwavering commitment to his family and his causes.

Jim's life was full of adventure, challenges, and contradictions. He served 13 years in the US Navy and was aboard the USS Oriskany during the Vietnam war. Though a lack of buoyancy kept Jim from ever being a swimmer. A fear of heights made getting a pilot's license Jim's next logical step. An aversion to bookkeeping and calculations lead him to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, from the University of Virginia, McIntire School of Commerce.

Jim was a self-made man, with a keen eye for identifying opportunities. He was a local business owner, entrepreneur, investor, patented inventor, and mentor to many. His business ventures were an eclectic list of successes, including nightclubs (Odyssey, Max, Trax), commercial properties, a trucking company, a fishing boat, a marina, a racehorse, and the list goes on.

Jim was an avid golfer. He loved getting together with good friends for a few rounds. He had a deep love for animals and was known to adopt the "rescues."

Whether family, friend, business associate or benefactor of his wisdom, Jim will be missed by many. His encouragement, confidence and straight forward approach to life made him an invaluable resource. Personal stories abound of Jim "helping me" get started; "He changed the trajectory of my career."

A special thank you to Summit Square Memory Care in Waynesboro, VA. With the encouragement and care of an amazing staff, he spent his last months laughing, dancing, singing, and explaining his latest business strategies.

Services were held Friday, June 7, 2024, at 1 p.m., at Teague Funeral Home, 2260 Ivy Road, Charlottesville, VA, 22903. A graveside service occurred Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Sherwood Memorial Park, 1250 E. Main St., Salem, VA, 24153.