Avis Jewel Askew

Avis Jewel Askew, affectionately known as "Jewel" was born on June 6, 1928, in Sunflower County, Mississippi, to James Thomas and Myrtle Timmes. A life marked by service, love, and culinary talents, she went to be with the Lord peacefully on November 3, 2024, in her cherished hometown. Jewel will be honored with a visitation on November 6, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life at Ray Funeral Home, in Cleveland, MS 38732. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, remembered for her loving spirit, culinary masterpieces, and the lasting impact she had on her family and friends.

Jewel’s formative years were spent in Sunflower Plantation, where she graduated from Drew High School. She devoted her early adult years to her family as a devoted homemaker and seamstress, and her extraordinary cooking skills became a hallmark of her character. After her children were older, she transitioned to a rewarding career as an assembler at Baxter's, where she dedicated over 20 years of her life until her retirement.

Jewel’s passion was her family, particularly her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She cherished the moments spent with them, creating memories that will last for generations. Her profound love extended beyond her immediate family, encompassing a broad circle of friends and relatives.

As a lifelong servant of the Lord, Jewel was actively involved in multiple churches. Her cooking for large family holiday meals showcased her generosity and warmth. Her nurturing spirit touched the hearts of many in her community, epitomizing the values of kindness and compassion.

Jewel is preceded in death by her loving parents, Tom and Myrtle Timmes; husbands, AJ Proctor Jr. and Curtis Askew; her son, Lanny Proctor; her brother, James Thomas Timmes Jr.; and her sisters, Lois Mize, Nell Cascio, Faye Bates, and Claudine Raines.

She is survived by her two sons, Douglas Proctor and his wife Alice, Frank Proctor, Sr. and his wife Denona; and bonus son, Kenny Askew and his wife Allison. Her daughters, Diane Roberts, Janet Crawford and her husband Terry, Rose Walters; daughter-in-law, Kim Proctor; bonus daughter, Melinda Askew Walsh and her husband Rick, sister Freida Williams and brother Delbert Timmes and wife Renate are also left to honor her memory. 

Jewel's legacy continues through her grandchildren: Tara Proctor Spillers and her husband Bud, Lana Proctor Casserino and her husband Phillip, Sarah Proctor, Kevin Crawford, Tom Stephens, Ashley Gibson, Frank Proctor, Jr., Jenifer Davidson and her husband Max, Austen Walsh and his wife Catalina, and Lee Walsh and his wife Maritza. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren: Morgan Moore, Gavin Coleman, Braden Moore, Joseph Gibson, Harley Belle Gibson, Cooper Davidson, Frazier Davidson, and Blaise Gibson. Also, by many, many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. 

The family would like to thank all the nurses and staff at Long Term Care for taking wonderful care of Jewel.