

Gainesville, FL - With deep sorrow and immense love, we announce the passing of our beloved Dr. Shannon Maureen Brumfield Ashley who passed away July 22, 2025 at the age of 78. The daughter of Dr. Fred Orlan Brumfield and Mary Kathleen Maloney Brumfield, she was born in New Orleans in 1946. Shannon graduated at the top of her class from Country Day School, received her undergraduate degree from LSU, her Master's Degree from Temple University, and her Doctorate from the University of Florida.
Shannon's life was defined by her extraordinary kindness, tireless resolve, and deep commitment to the well-being of others. She was a gifted educator and clinician. Shannon devoted her career to supporting individuals with learning disabilities and communication disorders. Her life's work centered on helping others overcome challenges to achieve success and lead fulfilling, joyful lives.
Shannon was an extraordinarily gifted speech and language pathologist. As a supervisor at the University of Florida's Dyslexia Clinic and Communication Disorders Clinic, Shannon played a pivotal role in guiding and mentoring students pursuing careers in speech-language pathology. Her wisdom, patience, and passion inspired countless future clinicians while changing the lives of the many children and adults she served. Her colleagues and students will always remember her as a source of steady support, knowledge, and heartfelt encouragement.
Shannon was a passionate lover of the arts, finding joy and inspiration in reading, and creating beautiful works of art that reflected her vibrant spirit. She was a dedicated supporter and active member of the Orléans Club and the New Orleans Country Club. Shannon was also passionately involved with the New Orleans Historic District Preservation efforts.
Beyond her personal interests and professional accomplishments, Shannon will be remembered most for the way she lived—with grace, empathy, laughter, and deep love for those around her. Her absence leaves a space that can never be filled.
Shannon is survived by her devoted husband Dr. Robert Grady Ashley Jr., her loving sister Mary Kathleen Davies, and her beloved brother, Fred Orlan Brumfield Jr. She also leaves behind her adoring nieces - Keely, Courtney, and Jennifer, nephews Robert and Spencer, godson Jeremy, and beloved great nieces and nephews who brought her great joy. Her legacy will live on in the many lives she touched, and the work she championed with such care and compassion.
A celebration of Shannon's life will be held on September 27, 2025 in New Orleans at St. Pius X, 6666 Spanish Fort Blvd. at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Humane Society, or the charity of one's choice in honor of Shannon's lifelong mission to help others.
We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the exceptional doctors, nurses, and hospice team who cared for Shannon with such compassion, and unwavering dedication. Their kindness and tireless efforts ensured that she was surrounded by peace and love in her final days, and for that, we are profoundly thankful.
Shannon will remain forever in our hearts, thoughts, and prayers. Shannon, we will miss you and always love you.
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