Ashland was born on August 17, 1940, in Chapmanville, West Virginia, to the late Cecil and Mae Butcher. He graduated from Chapmanville High School in 1957. Following graduation, he proudly volunteered to serve his country in the United States Army for nine years, including two tours in Vietnam. In recognition of his bravery and honorable service, he was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Sharp Shooter Medal, Purple Heart, Bronze Star, two Vietnam Campaign Ribbons, and an Army Accommodation Medal.
During his military career, Ashland married the love of his life, Irene Lambert Butcher, on June 8, 1968. Following their marriage, they relocated from Chapmanville, West Virginia, to Mansfield, Ohio.
After his military service, Ashland built a strong work ethic through a long and dedicated career. He was employed by AK Steel for 35 years, CSX Railroad for 6 years, and Richland County Transit (RCT) for 20 years.
Ashland attended Brookwood Way Church of Christ in Mansfield.
A brave and beloved family man, Ashland is survived by his wife, Irene Lambert Butcher. He was a loving stepfather to DeLinda Elaine (Jim) Thomas and Thomas Eddie (Dawn) Ferrell, whom he raised as his own. He was a proud grandfather to his 6 grandchildren, Michael (Julie) McPeek, Matthew (Krista) McPeek, Kimberly (Scott) Robles, Stephen (Tiffany) Ferrell, Melissa (Reheim) McPeek, and Beth Ferrell. He also cherished his role as a great-grandfather to 11 great-grandchildren, Jalyn, Brooklyn, Jor-el, Mason, Jastyn, Micah, Alexia, Drevyn, Camden, Mira and Dominic along with numerous nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.
Ashland was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Mae Butcher; his grandparents, French and Dolly Butcher, Harlan Mullins, and Lou Ellen Frye; and his siblings, Candice Hensley, Racine Dingess, Devoil Butcher, and Rhondall Butcher.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Ashland’s life on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 10:00AM to 11:00AM at Brookwood Way Church of Christ, 248 Brookwood Way N, Mansfield, Ohio, with services beginning at 11:00AM. Burial will follow at Mansfield Memorial Park Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 in his memory.
Ashland will be remembered for his courage, dedication, and deep love for his family. His legacy of strength and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Wappner Funeral Directors – Ontario is honored to serve the Butcher family.
