John Peter Aseff
October 9th, 1927- November 20th, 2018
John Peter Aseff passed away November 20th, 2018 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Athens, Ga. He was 91 years old and lived a wonderful, Christian life in Madison, Ga with his beloved wife of 55 years Patricia Anne Murray Aseff near their devoted daughters, Leanne Brice from Madison and Sarah Smith from Augusta.
John’s father, Farris Asseff, migrated from Syria in the early 1900’s to Canada where he met and married John’s mother, Celina Champagne in Montreal, Canada. They traveled to Charleston, WVa, where they humbly raised their 7 children. John was the youngest child and last survivor of his birth family.
John enlisted in the US Coast Guard where he proudly served during WWII with ratings held AS., S2c., S1c. and received an Honorable Discharge at Peacetime. He was awarded the WWII Victory Ribbon and the American Area Campaign Ribbon. Upon entering civilian life, he enrolled in at WVa State College and finally graduated from WVU –becoming the first college graduate in his family. He began teaching high school at Stonewall Jackson High School where he met the love of his life, Patricia, who was also a teacher there. They married on December 19, 1964 and enjoyed their strong loving union each and every day raising their daughters.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia Aseff, their daughter Leanne Brice (husband Terry) of Madison and her children Lauren Ferrell and Cody Ferrell; their daughter Sarah Smith of Augusta and her children Joanna Sassos (fiancé James Gebhardt) Elly McElhannon (husband Joey and children Eleana and Jay) and Sommer Collins; his son John Aseff of Marietta, his children Jonathan and Emily; daughter Becky Jordan (husband Mike) of Woodstock and their children Brooke, Tim, Mike and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister-in law, The Rev. Dr. Joan Murray; brother-in-law David Murray (wife Betsy) and their children and grandchildren; his nieces, nephews, cousins, and many long-time family friends.
John was devoted to his family with enduring, unconditional love and was always the voice of reason, guidance, and sound advice to many who sought his wisdom. He was a constant rock and steadfast provider. He earned two Master’s Degrees and a B.S in Education and Mathematics retiring from his passion - teaching high school - after 30 years. John (Coach “A”) was among the first Ga high coaches who pioneered 8th grade football and soccer programs. He was a natural mentor and inspiration to his high school students and athletes who often returned to express their gratitude to him (Coach “A”) for inspiring them to achieve successful careers. His wife, Patricia, retired from teaching after 22 years and they enjoyed traveling and spending time with family.
John will be greatly missed by those who were graced by his love, friendship, loyalty and witty sense of humor.
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