Leonard Ashley

1930 - 2025

Leonard Moore Ashley, 94, died peacefully with family by his side on September 24, 2025. He had recently moved from Merced, CA, to Knoxville, TN, to be near family. He leaves behind a daughter, Cheryl Ashley Beckstrom, a son, Glenn Leonard Ashley, grandchildren, Heather Schad and Ryan Poster, great-grandchildren, Keegan and Baker Schad, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Vera. Leonard was a Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force, where he was a B-52 Gunner and taught as a B-52 Academic Gunnery Instructor at Castle Air Force Base in Merced, CA. Leonard earned the Air Force Commendation Medal. After earning his Master's Degree and retiring from the Air Force, Leonard taught at Planada Elementary School, where he inspired many of his students. Leonard was a devoted husband to Vera, and they enjoyed 65 years together. Leonard was a member of the American Legion and an avid golfer with three holes in one. Leonard was an outgoing man who could talk to anyone and especially loved getting to know people at his favorite restaurants. He grew up on a farm, and he cultivated a prosperous garden for many years. Leonard was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. A memorial service with military honors will be held at the East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery in Knoxville, Tennessee, on October 14, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Alzheimer's Association (act.alz.org).