Virginia L Ashley

May 2, 1945 – December 22, 2025

Virginia Louise Ashley, the only child of the late Orville Ashley and the late Irma Ashley, was born on May 2, 1945, in Indianapolis, Indiana.

During her early years, Virginia lived in Long Branch, New Jersey, and Allegan, Michigan. In 1953, at the age of eight, she moved to Seattle, Washington, which remained her home for the rest of her life. Her family’s earlier moves were influenced by her father’s service in the United States Army.

Virginia graduated from high school in 1964 and dedicated 15 years to working as a nurse’s aide in several nursing homes. She was known for her reliability, strong work ethic, and quiet compassion. One of the most meaningful roles of her life was caring for her mother for many years, a responsibility she carried with devotion and pride.

Virginia lived an engaged and reflective life. She loved playing Scrabble and continued meeting with friends for games, puzzles, coloring, and sing-alongs, remaining active and socially connected. She also enjoyed journaling and writing, often reflecting on her life experiences, relationships, and memories from earlier years.

She shared a deep and lasting bond with a partner of 30 years, whose presence remained close to her heart even after his passing a few years ago. Virginia believed that blue jays were a sign of his presence, and seeing a blue bird often brought her comfort, reminding her that he was still near.

Virginia found joy in simple pleasures, including going to garage sales, visiting senior centers, tending to flowers and plants, and holding close the memory of her beloved cat, Becky, who had also passed and remained dear to her heart. Avocado green was her favorite color, and it held special meaning for her because it had also been her mother’s favorite color.

Though Virginia did not marry or have children, she was deeply loved and formed meaningful, lasting connections. She shared a special and enduring bond with her longtime caregiver, Tina, who cared for her devotedly for more than ten years and held a very special place in her life.

Though she had remained active and engaged, Virginia passed away on December 22, 2025, at an adult family home in Shoreline, Washington, following complications from pneumonia after a brief and unexpected decline. She will be remembered for her independence, caregiving spirit, and the quiet joy she found in connecting with people.