Jim Ash

Jimmy Doyle Ash

October 12, 1951- May 16, 2026

With heavy hearts we remember Jim Ash—an irreplaceable soul who left this world peacefully on May 16, 2026, at the Community Memorial Health Center in Burwell Nebraska. At 74 years old, Jim’s life was a testament to kindness, strength, and unwavering love. Once of Sargent Nebraska, he touched everyone he met with his genuine spirit and boundless generosity.

The funeral services will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, 10:30am, at the Sargent Community Center. Following the service, Jim will be laid to rest at Mount Hope Cemetery with Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, we kindly suggest memorials to the Sargent Fire Department and the Windmills Links Golf Course. Visitation will take place on Thursday, May 21, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Govier Brothers Mortuary in Broken Bow, Nebraska. Arrangements are entrusted to Govier Brothers Mortuary. Online condolences can be shared at www.govierbrothers.com

Jimmy Doyle Ash was born on October 12, 1951, in Broken Bow, Nebraska, to Raymond and Mabel (Dye) Ash. From his earliest days, his heart was generous, and his smile could light up any room. A proud graduate of Sargent High School in 1970, Jim’s journey led him to Denver, Colorado, and Lincoln, Nebraska, where he earned an associate degree in Drafting Technology.

In 1972, Jim joined the Nebraska Army National Guard, dedicating six years of his life to protecting and supporting others. On April 21, 1973, he married the love of his life, Roberta “Gay” Brass, a union that blessed them with three beautiful, wonderful and loving daughters: Jacki Rae, Jayme Lynn, and Jillian Jo. 

Jim’s pride in his community shone brightly through his service with the Sargent Fire Department. He took profound joy in placing flags at Mount Hope Cemetery alongside members of the American Legion. He found joy on the golf course, in games of cards, along quiet country roads, and in the proud moments spent pheasant hunting with his beloved Labradors. His craftsmanship was unmatched. His skilled hands and generous heart brought happiness and comfort to many through his work in homes and businesses.

 Known occasionally as “Bob the Builder,” Jim’s infectious humor and mischievous spirit lit up every gathering. He never met a stranger—his stories, jokes, and pranks brought laughter and warmth wherever he went. His ornery charm was a true reflection of his lively soul. 

Jim’s legacy lives on through his daughters—Jacki and Chris Beran of Sargent, Nebraska, Jayme and Nathan Hawk of Cody, Wyoming, and Jillian and Brandon Ingraham of Windsor, Colorado—and his beloved grandchildren: Rileigh, Mace, Brennan, Hayes Beran; Harper and Hudson Hawk; and Claire and Harrison Ingraham. He also leaves behind his sister, Bev and Dwaine Johnson of Kearney, Nebraska, and special nephew Bruce and Cindy Ash of Arcadia.

 Jim was preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Mabel, his wife Gay, and siblings Opal Kuh, Dean Ash, Don Ash, and Duane Ash.

 Our hearts are heavy, but we find comfort in knowing that Jim’s spirit will forever remain in our memories—his laughter, his kindness, his unbreakable love. We extend our deepest gratitude to the staff at Community Memorial Health Center for the compassionate care they provided during his final days.