JAMES RUSSELL ASHER was born in Camden, New Jersey on December 21, 1923 to Walter Russell Asher and his wife, the former Agnes Marie Hainsworth, the daughter of Eighth Ward political leader John J. Hainsworth. The 1930 Census shows the family living at 201 Sycamore Street in South Camden, and that Walter Asher worked as a machinist in one of Camden's many shipyards. Besides James the family included his aunt Elizabeth Asher and her month-old baby, also named Elizabeth Asher. Interestingly enough, Agnes Asher is recorded twice in the 1930 Census, both at the Sycamore Street address and under her maiden name at her parents home on Ferry Avenue.

James Asher attended school through the 10th grade and then, like the majority of boys of his generation, went to work. After serving in the United States Navy during World War II, James Asher returned to Camden and married Helen Mary Surowiec, the daughter of John and Mary Surowiec of 1709 Tioga Street, Camden in 1946. When the 1947 City Directory was compiled, the Ashers were living at the Tioga Street address with Mr. and Mrs. Surowiec. By the mid-1950s James and Helen Asher had moved to 2967 Tuckahoe Road in Fairview. They attended and educated their children at St. Joan of Arc Roman Catholic Church in Fairview. 

James Russell Asher was appointed to the Camden Fire Department on March 1, 1947 and reported for duty with Engine Company 10 the next day. He was detailed to City Commissioner Aaron's office on December 18, 1950, possibly in anticipation of his being recalled to duty with the United States Navy. James R. Asher entered the service on January 15, 1951 and remained on active duty until June 1, 1951. Upon his return to Camden he was returned to Engine Company 10.

On May 1, 1956 James R. Asher was promoted to Captain and was assigned to Engine Company 2, then based at the old Fire Headquarters at North 5th and Arch Streets. He served with Engine 2 until October 4, 1960, when he was assigned to Commissioner Garrity's office. Captain Asher was returned to Engine Company 2 on October 11, 1960, where he served until January 9, 1961 when he was again sent to assist Commissioner Garrity. On March 19, 1961 Captain Asher was sent to Engine Company 8 on Kaighn Avenue. On February 1, 1965 James R. Asher was promoted to Acting District Chief in he First Fire District. He was made permanent in his title on August 2, 1965. 

Chief James R. Asher retired on May 1, 1973. His son, John W. Asher, became a Camden fire fighter in 1977. His father, Walter Asher, last a resident of Clementon, New Jersey, died in 1983. James Asher passed away in Deptford, New Jersey on May 31, 2003, survived by his wife, five children, and a host of other relatives and friends.