Clarence Wardell Ash, Sr.

On Thursday, October 12, 2023, Clarence Wardell Ash, Sr., peacefully entered into eternal rest surrounded by his faithful, loving wife and children. He was born July 9, 1929 to the late Beverly and Marie Colander Ashe in Suffolk, VA. Besides his parents he was preceded in death by a daughter, Patricia, adopted son, Tyrone Copeland; three brothers, Thomas, Lonnie and Vernon; four sisters, Catherine, Christine, Rosalee and Laura; foster sister-in-law, Helen Ingram.

He joined the Antioch UCC in Suffolk, VA at an early age and was a faithful member for many years. His family grew rapidly after marrying the love of his life Josie Elizabeth Saunders on August 11, 1949.

Papa/Papa C.W., as he was fondly called loved his family. He enjoyed playing cards with special friends, as well as "shooting the breeze". He was a whiz at filling in gaps on the family tree with an excellent memory of who married who and etc. He retired from Planters Peanuts/Kraft after 30 plus years of faithful and dedicated service.

Clarence leaves to cherish his memories his lovely wife of 74 years, Josie Elizabeth Ash; six children, Evelyn Hunter (Raynor), Carlton Ashe, Vernettia Gibbs (Rufus), Clarence Ash (Beatrice), Carlia Williams and Gregory Ash (Donna); a special adopted son, Derik M. Adams; 14 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; brothers-in-law, Alphonsa Saunders and Leon Saunders; foster brother-in-law, Gene Ingram; sisters-in-law, Marjorie Saunders and Pecolia Saunders ; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was a precious staple to the family and will be missed by all that knew him.

A viewing will be held 1-7 p.m. Thursday, October 19, 2023 in the Melvin J. Blowe Chapel of Crocker Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held noon, Friday, October 20, 2023 at Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, 6100 Holy Neck Road, Suffolk, Virginia 23437. Rev. Dr. William L. Lang will officiate and Rev. Nathan Saunders will deliver the message of comfort. He will be laid to rest in the church cemetery. Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home, Inc.