WHEREAS, James Berry Ashwell, an admired educator and coach who shaped the minds and talents of countless students at Herndon High School, died on October 31, 2012; and WHEREAS, a native of Bedford County, James "Jim" Ashwell moved with his family to the Navy area near Herndon when he was 12; and WHEREAS, as a young man, Jim Ashwell displayed the mental and physical discipline and prowess that would lead to his successful high school and collegiate athletic careers and later, his championship-winning high school coaching career; and WHEREAS, Jim Ashwell lettered in baseball, basketball, and football while at Herndon High School and was named to the school's All-Century baseball team; his outstanding high school accomplishments earned him a scholarship to the University of Virginia, where he lettered in track and football; and WHEREAS, known as the "Herndon Flash," Jim Ashwell made his mark at the University of Virginia; he was the state collegiate champion in the 100-yard dash and halfback on the University of Virginia's nationally ranked football team and held the university's individual record for longest kickoff return (95 yards) for 41 years; and WHEREAS, Jim Ashwell proudly served his country in the United States Navy, earned a master's degree from the University of Virginia, and taught at Marshall High School and Mt. Vernon High School before returning to Herndon High School; and WHEREAS, Jim Ashwell brought a wealth of experience to the young men at Herndon High School, sharing insights gained from his own successful athletic career while helping mold the characters of his players; and WHEREAS, Jim Ashwell coached the Herndon High School football team to five district championships, the boys' track and field team to three state championships, and a boys' doubles tennis team to the state finals; and WHEREAS, Jim Ashwell remained active in retirement, playing golf and traveling around the world with his wife; and WHEREAS, committed to the success of his players on the field and in life, Jim Ashwell touched the lives of countless individuals over the course of his exemplary career as an educator and coach; and WHEREAS, Jim Ashwell will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his wife of 60 years, Lorraine; children, Linda, Gregory, and Kimberly, and their families; and numerous other family members and friends; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Delegates hereby note with great sadness the loss of a beloved educator and inspiring coach, James Berry Ashwell; and, be it RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of James Berry Ashwell as an expression of the House of Delegates' respect for his memory. |