James Larry Ashley, 77, passed away on January 28, 2025. Born on March 30, 1947, to James L. and Blanche Ashley, Larry was raised in a home filled with love and faith. His father, a Methodist minister, and his mother, a schoolteacher, instilled in him a deep appreciation for family, education, and service. He often spoke of his childhood with fondness, cherishing the guidance of his parents and the influence of his beloved grandmother, "Dunny."

Larry pursued a career in business and healthcare administration, working his way through college and earning master's degrees in Health Administration and Business Administration. His dedication and drive led him to become a Vice President for Charter Medical, overseeing the operations of nine hospitals across the United States. His expertise made him a sought-after speaker, even presenting before the U.S. Senate. However, despite his professional success, Larry struggled to find true fulfillment.

His life took a profound turn while living in Little Rock, Arkansas. In a moment of tragedy, he took a life, an event that devastated him long before he was convicted of capital murder. During his time awaiting trial, an off-duty police officer, following what he believed was God's calling, visited Larry to share the message of Christ's forgiveness. That day, Larry surrendered his life to Christ, beginning a journey of transformation that defined the rest of his years.

With a hunger for the Word of God, Larry pursued further education, earning multiple theological degrees, including a Doctorate in Biblical Studies. He devoted his life to ministry, beginning with Bible studies while incarcerated. Over the years, his teachings expanded into the PAL (Principles and Applications for Life) program, a faith-based initiative that dramatically reduced recidivism rates. His classes, once attended by a handful of men, grew to reach hundreds, with his materials distributed across the country and abroad.

In 2002, Larry married his beloved wife, Diana. Though they never shared a home, their love was unwavering. Diana visited him faithfully every Saturday for 24 years, and they communicated daily through letters and video calls. Their bond was strengthened by faith, and together, they built a marriage rooted in devotion and perseverance.

Larry continued his ministry until declining health forced him to slow down. After surviving multiple heart attacks, his heart finally gave out, and he passed from this life into the presence of his Lord. He is now free, healed, and reunited with loved ones who have gone before him.

Larry is survived by his wife, Diana Ashley; stepdaughter, Tiffany Fordyce; four sons, Jim, David, Scott, and Brian; sisters, Dee Hook and Ruth Jeanette Ashley.

His legacy of faith and redemption will continue through the countless lives he touched, the men he mentored, and the ministry he built. His family finds comfort in the promise that he now hears the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Funeral Service will be 2:30 p.m. Saturday, February 8, 2025 at Monte Ne Baptist Church, 1610 Monte NE Rd, Rogers, Arkansas with Pastor Mack Mills officiating. Internment to Follow at Benton County Memorial Park, Rogers, Arkansas.