James R. "Peanut" Ashton, 83, of Malta passed away Monday, January 17, 2022 at his home. He was born April 12, 1938 in Malta, Ohio  to the late Francis Ashton and Mary Gaines Ashton Cadman. He graduated from M. & M. High School in 1956. He worked for ODOT, Burnham Boiler and other overseas jobs. James was retired from the military after 20 years and served in both the Air Force and Navy. He was a member of the Main Street Church of Christ in McConnelsville. He was the past commander and lifetime member of the VFW Post #4713. James was a musician and loved to play the steel guitar, the drums and the trumpet. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn S. Roach Ashton of the home whom he married July 13, 1977. They shared 44 years of marriage. Also surviving are two daughters, Mary Ashton Bagligtto of California, Stephanie Ashton (Jeff) Johnson of Texas; a son, Joseph (Sharilee) Ashton of Newark; and four step children, James Smith, David (Pam) Gavin, Harold Gavin, Jr. and Lori Goodnite. He also had nine grandchildren; and four great grandchildren; his aunt, Betty Larrick; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Jimi Sue Ashton; a sister, Jerri Weisen; and a stepfather, John Cadman. Calling hours will be Friday, January 21, 2022 from 6-8 p.m. at  Miller-Huck Funeral Home and Saturday, January 22, 2022 from  12- 1 p.m.  A funeral service will held at 1 p.m. at the funeral home  and James will be laid to rest in McConnelsville Cemetery. Military honors will be provided by the American Legion Post #24 color guard. Due to health concerns the family requests that all visitors wear masks at the services. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.miller-huck.com