Thomas Askew

Thomas L. Askew Sr. affectionately known as Bubba” to family and friends, was born to Woodrow and Carrie Askew on July 31, 1937, in Chambers County, Alabama. He was the second oldest of seven children and loved his family. A proud graduate of Wall Street High School in June of 1955, he last visited his Alma Mater in July of 2019.

Thomas accepted Christ at a very early age and was steadfast in his devotion throughout his life. In his early years as a southern boy, he was a faithful member of Real Town Baptist Church. In 1957, Thomas moved away from his southern life, traveled through many states, and finally settled his roots in Saginaw, Michigan.

On August 4, 1962, Thomas married Sally M. Collins and to this union four children were born. Thomas became a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church and for the last 36 years of his life, he was a faithful member of New Jerusalem Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon and Trustee.

Thomas had a passion for fixing things and found his niche in the auto industry working for the foundry in the early 70s, and as a layman for the railroads. In the mid-70s, his profession began at “The Shop.” For over four decades, he did what he loved doing and that was fixing on cars. There weren’t many days that went by when he wasn’t there. At about 80 years young, he reluctantly kissed his passion for cars goodbye. During this time, his focus was spending time with his family because he knew he could not turn his wrench anymore.

Thomas came from a big family with a whole lot of love to give. He leaves to cherish loving memories his children, Cheryl D. Daniels, Toni M. Askew, Denise Nickleberry and Carrie F. Askew who were also special caregivers; Sarah (Steve) Jones, Thomas L. Askew, Jr., Jill R. (Leon) Beemon, Priscilla (Terry) Rockett, Tonya (James) Jones, Elizabeth Cheatham, and Travis (Christa) Jones; two sisters, Sarah Canty and Peggy Prince; brothers-in-law, Pastor John L. Williams and George (Bernice) Williams; special aunt, Delia Nichols; in-laws, Dazarene Macklin, William B. Green, Karen Lowery, Cheryl Askew, Frances Askew; special niece, Francine Williams; special friend, Charles Russell; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and special caregiver, Shaquarra Feagin-Askew.

Thomas was preceded in death by his wife, Sally M. Askew; parents, Woodrow Askew and Carrie Lawson; children, Martin Lowery, Emma Sanders, Lawrence L. Askew, and Sherri Ragland; siblings, Mary Smith, Helen Griggs, Walter L. Askew, Ronnie R. Askew, Debra Askew and Carrie Williams.