C.Artris Ashley

C.Artris Ashley, affectionately known as, "Ashley", age 82, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on October 23, 2025. He was born on May 19, 1943, to Jeff and Addie Ashley, who preceded him in death.

Ashley began his career as an apprentice electrician with Walker’s Electric Co., where he developed the skill and discipline that would define his life’s work. Through dedication, hard work, and mastery of his craft, he rose to become a Master Journeyman Electrician, a title he held with great pride and distinction.

He later served as an electrician for the Kansas City Missouri School District, where he dedicated many years ensuring that the schools and their students were safe and well-served. His commitment to his profession extended beyond his daily work. He was a member of the Board of Trustees for the Public-School Retirement System of the Kansas City Missouri School District, where he helped protect and guide the benefits of countless employees.

Ashley had a gregarious way of being, yet a quiet, contemplative side as well. He was a man of contrast, full of laughter and conversation, yet equally comfortable in reflection and solitude. He was a doer who showed his love through his work, a reflection of his care, pride, and devotion. His craftsmanship could be seen in every project he touched, but his greatest legacy was the work ethic and sense of pride he passed down to his children and to all those he coached and mentored throughout his years in the trade.

He will be remembered for his craftsmanship, his work ethic, and his larger-than-life personality that drew people to him wherever he went.

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Family Acknowledgment

Ashley was preceded in death by his parents, Jeff and Addie Ashley; his siblings, LeRoy Ashley and Esther Holmes; two sons, Don D. Ashley and Bryan C. Ashley; and three grandsons, Jason Roffle, Don Ashley, and Aaron Ashley.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Mellody A. Harmon; his children, Kellie Ashley Tate (daughter Jasmine), Marvin Ray Ashley (son Alexander, daughter Asia, and two grandchildren), and Byron Keith Ashley (sons Bryan and Bryce, daughters Brittney, Meya, Bryelle, and Ladonna, and six grandchildren); and Byron’s wife, Tairre Ashley.

He is also survived by his brothers, Milton Ashley, Jeff Ashley Jr., and Leonard Ashley, and his sisters, Rose Gordon, Ann Hill, Mae Ashley, and Marilyn Ashley.

Ashley’s legacy continues through a loving extended family of brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, elders, and countless dear friends who will miss his presence, humor, and kindness deeply.