Ashley Thomas Garst

Born on March 7, 1963, Ashley was the beloved son of Paul M. and Peggy Garst. A man of Christian faith, he loved the Lord and carried that faith throughout his life- especially in the way he cared for his family. Ashley had a way of making everyone feel like they belonged, welcoming strangers in and treating every friend as if they were family.

Ashley attended Mt. Olive Elementary and Gardendale High School where he studied Fine Arts. Ashley was recommended by his instructors to attend the prestigious Alabama School of Fine Arts (ASFA). Ashley was accepted and trained among some of the most gifted young artists in the state. ASFA shaped his discipline, his artistic identity, and his belief that art is more than expression — it is a service.

Ashley served his country in the United States Marine Corps. Following his service, he became known as a storyteller and a natural "people-person." With his warmth, humor, and effortless ability to connect with others, he could light up any room he entered. Ashley was a lifelong artist. He found great joy in creating beautiful works of art and sharing his vision with the world. He was rarely without a dog by his side. They were a constant companion. Charli will miss him dearly

He is survived by his mother, Peggy Garst; his three sons, Austin Maverick Garst, Aaron Dakota Garst, and Samuel Jordan Garst; and his grandson, Zaydn Garst. He also leaves behind his sister, Rhonda (Steve) Woodcock; his brothers, Philip (Rose Marie) Garst and Barry Garst; his nephews, Nick Woodcock and Noah Garst; his niece, Christina (Nick) Mohney; and his great-nephew and great-niece, Keegan and Kynnedy Mohney.

Ashley was preceded in death by his father, Paul M. Garst, and his niece, Emily Garst, grandparents James T. and Clara Hamilton Skelton, Paul W. and Artive Watkins Garst.

A visitation for Ashley will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025 from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM at Ridout's Gardendale Chapel, followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 2:00 PM. Ashley will be laid to rest at Moncrief Cemetery in Gardendale, Alabama, in a family plot near his father.

Pallbearers honoring Ashley Garst's life are his long time friends: Jon Moon, Randy Smith, Chris Renshaw, Keith Creel, Tony Cousins, Caleb Dyer, Mike Marshall, and Ezra Hudson. Services will be officiated by Pastor Travis Key.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those wishing to honor Ashley’s memory consider purchasing a piece of his original artwork. His creations will be available starting mid 2026; please contact his son, Dakota, for further information. He would be honored to know his art continues to bring beauty into the homes of those he loved.