Obituary | James Edward Askew | Bradshaw & Range Funeral Home PC (2024)

In Loving Memory: James Edward Askew, (February 12, 1949 – July 23, 2023)

With heavy hearts, we mourn the sudden and untimely passing of James Edward Askew, affectionately known as Q, a cherished member of our community who touched the lives of many. On July 23, 2023, he departed this world, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, care, and nurturing that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him.

James Edward Askew was a devout man of faith, finding solace and strength in his regular attendance at church. His unwavering belief in God guided him through life, and he shared his wisdom and compassion with others, making him an exceptional educator and coach. His passion for teaching and mentoring extended far beyond the classroom and court, as he selflessly invested in the lives of his students and athletes, molding them into better individuals both on and off the field.

Born into this world on January 12, 1949, in Gregory, Arkansas, James Edward Askew was destined to be a caring and nurturing presence in the lives of all who crossed his path especially his God Granddaughters, Alexa and Mya. Despite facing personal heartaches, having lost both his beloved mother and father, he channeled his experiences into understanding and supporting those in need. His love knew no boundaries, and he readily embraced his role as a beloved uncle, leaving a lasting impact on his nieces and nephews.

James Edward Askew embarked on a fulfilling and illustrious career in education, with decades of service that positively influenced generations of young minds. In June 2009, he retired from his full-time teaching position, having dedicated an impressive 37 years to shaping the future through the power of education. Retirement did not diminish his passion for teaching, and he later returned as a substitute, further enriching the lives of his students.

Throughout his illustrious career, James Edward Askew was known for his unwavering dedication to fostering a nurturing and intellectually stimulating learning environment. Armed with a Master of Education from Roosevelt University and a Bachelor of Arts from Wheaton College, his academic prowess was matched only by their passion for shaping the minds and characters of students.

As a Teacher, James Edward Askew instilled in his pupils a love for learning, inspiring them to reach beyond their potential. His genuine care and support earned him the admiration of both students and colleagues alike. James Edward Askew took on various leadership roles, including that of Dean of Instruction, where they played a pivotal role in developing innovative teaching methodologies and ensuring the continuous growth of Waukegan High School.

With a profound belief in the importance of sports and extracurricular activities, James Edward Askew took on the responsibility of Athletic Director. Under their guidance, numerous athletes achieved both personal and team triumphs, learning valuable life skills along the way.

As a devoted member of his church, Sign of The Dove, James Edward Askew found spiritual nourishment and community, exemplifying his faith through his actions and interactions with others. His profound commitment to his beliefs radiated in the way he treated people with empathy, understanding, and kindness.

In his leisure time, James Edward Askew enjoyed expressing his culinary creativity in the kitchen, delighting family and friends with his delicious dishes. Playing basketball and engaging in weight training not only kept him fit but also served as a means of connecting with others through friendly competition and teamwork. He cherished the camaraderie and joy that family cookouts brought, strengthening bonds, and creating lasting memories with loved ones.

Alongside his nieces and nephews, James Edward Askew shared a strong bond with his sisters and brothers, living a life of shared memories, laughter, and sibling camaraderie. Now, as we gather to celebrate his life and bid him farewell, we are reminded of the precious moments we were fortunate enough to share with him.

James Edward Askew was more than just a name; he was a beacon of light in the lives he touched. His generosity and warmth reached far and wide, leaving behind an indelible impression on all who were fortunate enough to have known him. As we grieve his loss, we also find solace in knowing that he has now been reunited with his loved ones who passed before him, his Mother, Pearline Askew (Payne) and Father, Frank Askew, his Sisters Hattie Mae Askew and Carrie Mae Stegall, and his Brothers, Robert Askew, Louis Askew, Frank Askew, Jr, finding eternal peace in their embrace.

Let us cherish the memories, values, and life lessons he shared, ensuring that his spirit lives on in each of us. “Q” Survived by his Sister Delores Jones -Beaumont, CA, Brother John Askew -Chicago, IL , Sister Merlean Jackson (AG) -Zion, Illinois, Sister Betty Davis, Anaheim, CA., and very special God Granddaughters: Alexa and Mya and 30 Nieces and Nephews and two special friends, Willie Stepney and Sylvia England.

In the tapestry of life, James Edward Askew wove threads of love, compassion, and guidance into the hearts of many, forever leaving an imprint of his remarkable soul. May his memory be a blessing to all who mourn his loss, and may we find comfort in the knowledge that he now rests in eternal peace.

Rest in peace, dear James Edward Askew. Your presence will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A Celebration of His Life Service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Friday, August 4, 2023 at the Sign of the Dove Church, 424 10th Street, Waukegan, IL. Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Memorial Park Cemetery, Zion, IL. Visitation will begin at 10:30 A.M.

THE IN PERSON ELECTRONIC GUESTBOOK MAY BE SIGNED NOW BY UTILIZING THE LINK

https://www.astyclient.com/external/addGuest?serviceId=9730

IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO ATTEND.

(the online guestbook is below which is different from the in person electronic guestbook)

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of James Edward Askew, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.