James Donald Ashley

June 26, 2016

James Donald Ashley, 68, of Sopchoppy, died at the Margaret Z. Dozier Hospice House June 26, 2016. He was born April 15,1948 in Orlando, Florida. Don Ashley was a passionate family man and wildlife conservationist. He is survived by his wife Pamela, sons Brett (Juliet) and Kevin (Aimee) and daughter Jennifer Browning (Bert). He counted his ten grandchildren as a true blessing. Also survived by his 3 brothers Ronnie, Tommy and Johnny. His love of nature began when he worked for Ross Allen at the Silver Springs attraction doing alligator and rattlesnake shows. He attended the University of Florida and went to work for the Florida Fresh Water Fish Commission in the early 1970's. He attained the rank of Major and met his future wife Pamela there, who was working a summer job in the radio room while attending FSU. He went on to become an advocate for the alligator industry and lead the way to change state and federal laws allowing the sale and export of this new industry. He developed a grading system for alligator hides that was accepted worldwide and worked with alligator farmers to develop the original egg and hatchling collection program on public lands. National publications like National Geographic, the Wall Street Journal, the Economist magazine and the New York Times regularly contacted him for his updates on the alligator and crocodilian industry. In the past he served on the Florida Wildlife Federation's Board of Directors served as a Board of Trustee for the FSU Coastal and Marine Lab. Upon making Franklin County his home in the late 1980's he served on the Riverkeepers Board of Directors as well as the original Franklin County Habitat for Humanity. He peacefully passed away from cancer surrounded by his family. In lieu of flowers the family asks for a donation to be made to the Franklin County Habitat for Humanity. A celebration of his life will be held at the historic Breakaway Lodge in the near future. Rest in peace, you are with nature. Your loving family. Arrangements are under the care of Skip Young with Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services. 850-926-5919*Familyfhc.com