T.J. "Jack" Askew

T.J. “Jack” Askew

T.J. “Jack” Askew, 92, of Orange, Texas, passed away on September 30, 2024, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont.  

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, October 3, 2024, at Autumn Oaks Memorial Park in Orange. 

Born in Cooper, Texas, on February 22, 1932, he was the son of Delbert H. Askew and Magalee (Garmon) Askew. Jack moved to Orange in the 40’s. He graduated from Lutcherstark in 1950, where he met the love of his life, Bobbye Godeaux. They married on July 16, 1954, and were together for over 68 years before Bobbye passed on January 20, 22. Jack retired from the Orange Fire Department in July of 1994, after 38 years of service. He owned and operated Jack’s Appliance for many years and was definitely a “Jack” of all trades. He could fix anything. Up until about a year ago when his health no longer allowed. You could often find him “piddling” (as he called it) in his shop with an old tractor or antique steam engine. Jack had a love of all things “antique”. He and Bobbye spent any chance they could at antique car shows, swap meets, flea markets, and especially the First Monday Trade Day in Canton, Texas. Jack will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Delbert and Magalee; wife of over 68 years, Bobbye Askew; brothers, Bryce Askew and Jerry Askew.

He is survived by his daughter, Kristy Harwell and husband J.W.; son, Terry Askew and wife Raquel; grandchildren, Kurt Sheppard, Taylor Weldon and fiancé Jessica Westlund, and Gregory Askew; lifelong friend, Clarence Yarbrough; numerous nieces, nephews, and other loving family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation at https://www.firehero.org/donate/.

Thanks to Lisa West for the love, care, and friendship she provided Daddy. Also thank you to Michael Roberts for always being there to help.