Ashley Heacock

Heacock, Ashley
PITTSFIELD, Mass. - Ashley "Lee" Heacock, 74, formerly of Altamont, N.Y., passed away on October 14, 2025, at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, after a brief but remarkably fought battle. Lee was born March 15, 1951, to the late Grosvenor Walker Heacock and Anna Ruth (Fagan) Heacock. Lee was raised in Guilderland, N.Y., graduating from Guilderland High School in 1970. He earned a two-year Associates Degree from Hudson Valley Community College and went on to finish his four-year Engineering Degree from Union College. Lee worked as a logistics engineer for over 30 years for General Electric and Bechtel Plant Machinery Inc., where he designed systems for submarines and aircraft carriers for the U.S. Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. Lee loved fixing and building things, and to lend a helping hand to his family, friends or even a stranger in need. He always thoughtfully listened to the concerns of others, and provided comforting, reassuring advice. There was no limit to the love he had for his family, and he found incredible joy in teaching others all he knew. He enjoyed fishing, tennis, watching the Yankees, cars, motorcycles, music, dogs, vacationing, and, above all, making others laugh. Lee was predeceased in death by his beloved soulmate, Jan (Vrooman) Heacock, who he was married to for 35 wonderful years. Together as a team, they created a warm home and a beautiful family, whom they made the center of their world. Lee is survived by his three daughters, Elizabeth (Jason) Taylor, Lindsey (Patrick) Moran and Amanda (Justin) Molinaro. He is also survived by his four grandchildren, who were the light of his life, Catherine Taylor, J. Matthew Taylor Jr., Liam Moran and Declyn Moran, who adoringly referred to him as "Papa." Lee is also survived by his loving partner of over eight years, Sally Rey, who together created laughter, happiness and new life, despite the devastating losses of their spouses. Lee is survived by his sister, Mary (Charlie) Stumpf; brother, Seth (Roxann) Heacock; brother in-law, Bill (Shufang) Vrooman; sister-in-law, Lisa (Phil) Lewis; and his many nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly. He will always be remembered for his quick wit, strength, resilience, sense of humor, selflessness, unconditional love for his friends and family, and constant willingness to help anyone. The funeral service will be held Wednesday, October 22, at 10:30 a.m., at St. John's Lutheran Church, Altamont, N.Y. Burial will be private, at the request of the family. The family asks in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the American Heart Association, in Lee's name.