Robert William ASHWORTH

Robert William Ashworth

Robert William Ashworth, 88, of Lynchburg, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 29 2008, at Lynchburg General Hospital. He was the husband of Marie Lipscomb Ashworth.

Robert was born in Campbell County on Feb. 13, 1920, a son of the late Bernard William Ashworth and the late Bertha Walthall Ashworth. He was the retired owner of the Lynchburg Oil Company and also rendered outstanding service as Director and Director Emeritus of the Petroleum Marketers Inc.

Robert was a life member of the Lynchburg Host Lions Club, where he had perfect attendance for 44 years. He was a devoted member of Fairview Christian Church, where he was an elder, deacon, a member of the Loyal Sons and Daughters Sunday school class, and a supporter of the Christian Men's Fellowship. A lover of music, Robert enjoyed his years as a member of The American Guild of Organists.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his first wife of 52 years, Lottie Harris Ashworth, and a brother, Clark Preston Ashworth.

He is survived by a sister, Gwendolyn A. Sprouse and husband, Ernest, of Knoxville, Tenn., and many loving nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be conducted at noon on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2008, at Fairview Christian Church, with the Rev. D. Jack Hamilton officiating. Interment will follow in Fort Hill Memorial Park. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 11 a.m. to noon at the church.

Because Robert proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II, the American Legion Post 16 will provide military honors at the cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the YMCA of Central Virginia, 801 Wyndhurst Drive, Lynchburg, VA 24502.

Tharp Funeral Home and Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family, (434) 237-9424. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.tharpfuneralhome.com.