James Ashley Morris

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; 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 (Odessey, Max, Trax), commercial

properties, trucking company, a fishing boat and marina.

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.

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 will be held Friday, June 7, 2024, at 1:00 PM at Teague Funeral Home, 2260 Ivy

Road, Charlottesville, VA 22903. A graveside service will occur Saturday, June 8, 2024, at

Sherwood Memorial Park 1250 E. Main St., Salem, VA 24153.