Phinis Styne Ashley

Phinis Styne Ashley, 76, of Norfolk, Virginia, entered into eternal rest on June 18, 2025. Born on July 17, 1948, in Madisonville, Texas, she was the beloved daughter of the late O.C. Ashley and Ida Smith Ashley.
Phinis graduated from Madisonville High School in 1966, where she was the Salutatorian for her class. She went on to pursue her passion for caregiving by earning her nursing degree from Provident Hospital School of Nursing in 1971. She later obtained her Bachelor's degree in Child Psychology from Salisbury State University in 1987.
A dedicated and compassionate nurse for 44 years, Phinis served as Director of Nursing at the Holly Center in Salisbury, Maryland. She concluded her career at Gynecology Associates, where she touched the lives of countless patients and colleagues with her gentle spirit and firm professionalism.
Phinis was the proud and loving mother of Sonia Michael and Pastor Alfred Michael (spouse Valerie Michael). She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Kyrsten Michael (Owana), Alyssa Sims, Sean Brown, Cynthia Michael (Timmie), and Alayla Michael; and her treasured great-grandchildren: Khalynn Haggie, Korbin Haggie, Victory Sims, Olana Bell, Isaac Sias, and Onessa Bell. She also held a special place in her heart for her close friends, Samuel Roundtree and her ever-faithful "plus-one" companion, Cal Lawrence.
A woman of strength, joy, and deep faith, Phinis had a smile that lit up any room. She was known as a mother to the motherless, endlessly giving, and selflessly loving. She spoke with truth and conviction, and her presence was a comforting constant to many. On any given Sunday, she could be found at New Life Worship Center, tambourine in hand, praising the Lord with all her heart. She was a faithful member of the church for 23 years.
Her favorite scripture, Romans 8:28, was a guiding light in her life: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
Phinis is preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Harold Vann, James Ashley, Charles Ashley, Leon Ashley, Oscar Ashley, Raymond Ashley, her sister, and her beloved Godson Rodney Spraggins. She is survived by her loving children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will forever cherish her memory.
The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Mark East and the staff at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital for their dedicated care and support.
Viewing:
Monday, June 30, 2025
12 Noon to 2:00 PM
New Life Worship Center
925 Briar Hill Road
Norfolk, VA
Celebration of Life:
Monday, June 30, 2025
2:00 PM
New Life Worship Center
925 Briar Hill Road
Norfolk, VA