James W. "J.W." Asher, 86, Byron, died Wednesday, Nov. 21, 2012 at Swedish American Hospital, Rockford.

James was born on April 14, 1926 in Knoble, Ark., the son of  Jack and Ivy Bowers Asher.

He married Betty Hanners on Aug. 19, 1950 in Pickett, Ark., and she preceded him in death on March 13, 2012.

He worked at Elco tool for more than 35 years.

He enjoyed bowling every Wednesday and was an avid hunter. He enjoyed hunting squirrel, turkey and deer. He got a deer this year with his crossbow and was hunting over the weekend during shotgun season.

He liked to travel and visit family during off season.

James is survived by his children, Rogennia (Victor Novack) Asher, Pat (Chuck Nelson) Asher,  and Jamie (David) Carey; grandchildren, Bruce “Chip”  (Jodi) Caruth, Tonya Caruth, Frederick “Rick” (Stacey) DuPont II, Desiree DuPont, Cassandra (Eric) Sutherland, Hilary Carey, Niki Glenn and Andrea Glenn; 6 great-grandchildren; 4, sisters Martha Lou, Geneva, Genetta, Doris “Terry”; a brother Wilbert.

James was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Betty; brother, Jackie; and sister, Rosalie.

A service to celebrate James' life was held Nov. 27 at Advantage Funeral and Cremation, 7000 W. State St., Rockford.

Burial was at Willwood Cemetery, Rockford.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.advantagerockford.com.