John Raymond Ashley, 83

Published 11:06 am Wednesday, April 23, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of John Raymond Ashley, who departed this life peacefully on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the age of 83. He passed away at the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington, with his loving wife by his side.
John was born on September 8, 1941, in Sassafras, Kentucky, to the late Bessie Cox Ashley and Silas Ashley. A man of quiet strength, steady kindness, and a smile that could brighten any room, he made the world a gentler place just by being in it. He had a special love for animals and found joy in the simple beauty of working in the yard—caring for the earth with the same tenderness he gave to his family.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 46 years, Betty Beckham Ashley; daughters Debbie Turner (Greg) Patterson and Erin Ashley (Ryne) Short; grandchildren Paige Patterson (Matt) Broughton, Rhett Thomas Short, and Charlotte Elizabeth Short; great-grandchildren Bex Broughton and Baby B. Broughton, who is lovingly awaited; sister, Shelby Jean Mullins as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his brothers Silas Jr. Ashley, Linden Lee Ashley, and Avery Wayne Ashley. He cherished the bond he shared with them, and now they are joyfully reunited.
John’s life was a quiet testimony to what it means to love deeply, work hard, and smile often. Though he has left this world, the legacy he built in the hearts of his family will live on for generations.
Visitation will begin at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the Leon Pace Memorial Chapel. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to a local animal shelter or a charity close to your heart.
He will be missed dearly, remembered always, and loved forever.