Vicky Askew, the mother of WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, was a remarkable woman whose life and accomplishments deserve to be celebrated. Born on July 11, 1920, in Florence, South Carolina, Vicky led an inspiring life filled with passion, resilience, and dedication. Her recent passing on January 20, 2022, at the age of 101, marked the end of an era for the McMahon family. In this article, we pay tribute to Vicky Askew, reflecting on her remarkable journey, her impact on Vince McMahon’s life, and the legacy she leaves behind.
Early Life and Family
Vicky Askew was the only daughter of Orpheus William Hanner and Victoria Kennedy Hanner. Growing up in Florence, South Carolina, she was surrounded by a loving family and a supportive community. Vicky’s parents instilled in her the values of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of family bonds.
Vicky’s Motherhood and Vince McMahon’s Birth
On August 24, 1945, Vicky Askew gave birth to her son, Vincent Kennedy McMahon, who would later become one of the most influential figures in the world of professional wrestling. Little did she know at the time that her son would take over the reins of the global juggernaut that is WWE.
A Life of Passion: Tennis and Music
While Vicky Askew’s primary role was that of a devoted mother, she also had her own passions and interests. Tennis was one of her great loves, and she continued to play the sport well into her 90s. Her dedication to staying active and engaged in activities she enjoyed is a testament to her vibrant spirit and zest for life.
In addition to tennis, Vicky had a beautiful soprano voice and shared her talent with others through her involvement in numerous church choirs. Her melodic voice resonated within the walls of the churches, touching the hearts of those who had the privilege to hear her sing.
Saying Goodbye: Remembering Vicky Askew
Vicky Askew’s passing was a deeply personal loss for the McMahon family, and her funeral was a private affair, allowing them to grieve and honor her memory in their own way. On January 22, family and close friends gathered to bid farewell to a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend. The funeral service reflected Vicky’s life, celebrating her accomplishments, and the impact she had on those around her.
To honor Vicky Askew’s memory and provide an opportunity for the broader community to pay their respects, a Memorial Mass for the Ebensburg community will be held on Saturday, January 29th, at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Name Roman Catholic Church, officiated by the Rev. Brian Warchola.
We extend our deepest condolences to Vicky’s family and friends during this difficult time. The loss of a loved one is never easy, but the memories and the love shared will forever remain in our hearts.
Controversy and Apologies
In the aftermath of Vicky Askew’s passing, former WWE superstar Ryback made controversial remarks about her in a series of tweets. The tweets, which have since been deleted, caused significant backlash within the wrestling community and beyond. Ryback’s comments were seen as disrespectful and insensitive, especially given the timing of Vicky’s recent passing.
However, in a surprising turn of events, Ryback took to Twitter again to apologize for his previous remarks. He expressed regret for referencing Vicky Askew in a negative way, acknowledging that he had met her and was touched by her kindness. While the wrestling community remains divided on Ryback’s actions and motives, his apology serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and empathy, especially in times of grief.
Vicky Askew’s Impact on Vince McMahon’s Life
Vicky Askew’s influence on Vince McMahon’s life cannot be overstated. As a devoted mother, she played an integral role in shaping his character, instilling in him the values of hard work, determination, and resilience. Vince McMahon’s success as the Chairman of WWE is a testament to the lessons he learned from his mother and the unwavering support she provided throughout his journey.
