Deborah Ashley Obituary
Debbie graduated from North Central High School in 1978, where she met her future husband, James Ashley. The two shared a beautiful journey together, marked by love, laughter, and mutual support. Debbie went on to graduate from Butler University. Her multifaceted roles and achievements reflect a life lived with purpose and was marked by a deep love for her family, a passion for the outdoors, a commitment to serving her community, and her generosity to others. Her children have many fond memories of her involvement in their various activities- Girl Scouts, baseball/softball, and swimming. Debbie loved the water and taking friends and family boating and teaching others to water ski. She enjoyed biking, swimming and walking- among many other activities.
After a fulfilling career at the family business, Ashley Safe & Security, Debbie retired to focus on her health and family. Her retirement was filled with the things she loved most: caring for her horses and Newfoundland dogs, exploring nature, relaxing at her cabin, and traveling to national parks. Debbie's active participation in her church and her zest for life were evident to all who knew her. She lived each day to its fullest, finding happiness in her loved ones and friends, and left an indelible mark on the world.
Debbie is survived by her husband, James, and their children: Donald Jones, Laura (Anthony) Nigbur, Megan (Jun) Xiao, and Ellen Jones. Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Dillon, Evelyn, Lucy, Raegan, Anthony, and Rylie, who brought immense joy to her life. Debbie is also survived by her sister, Rebecca Furtado, and a host of extended family members who held a special place in her heart.
A celebration of Debbie's life will be held at Glendale Seventh Day Adventist Church on August 3, 2024 at 5:00 pm. Located at 2900 E 62nd Street Indianapolis, IN 46220. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Riverview Health Foundation, https://donate.riverview.org, reflecting Debbie's commitment to making a positive impact on the world and in honor of her countless hours in the infusion center.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2 Entries
Ian Greene
August 6, 2024
Debbie was a pleasure to work with. She and I have had many discussions and interactions over the last many years and she was a wonderful woman. My thoughts and prayers go up on behalf of Jim and family. May Yah, the maker of heaven and earth mend your heart and inspire you.
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Sheri Craig Green
August 3, 2024
Thinking of all of you today as you celebrate Debbie´s beautiful life... So here´s my first memory... I moved to Indy in 1979 from the Chicago area. I was a Sophomore at North Central. I met Debbie´s sister Becky (Rebecca) in the lunch room with Lori (Monique). We all became quick friends. I had not met Debbie yet, and apparently we looked a bit alike. The first time I went to Becky´s house, as I was walking up the driveway her Mom yelled out the kitchen window- "Why didn´t you bring the baby!!! " At that moment so thought, what has Becky told her Mom about me, I was only 16!
Well if Mom thought I looked like her daughter, and after meeting Debbie we both realized her ID was perfect for me to use when going out!!! I spend a lot of fun times with her and the family going boating, (she helped me learn to water ski), and doing other things with her and Becky.
She is gone way to soon... But know she is watching over you all from heaven!
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