Ashley Stewart Rödder

Ashley Weldon Stewart Rödder, was born in Morgantown, West Virginia on January 1, 1984, to John E. Stewart and Phyllis Stewart-Brown (Alex) of New York and Morgantown, West Virginia. At the age of 42 years, our beloved Ashley transitioned into eternal rest on February 17, 2026, surrounded by family and friends. She was preceded in death by her father and paternal grandparents.

Ashley was a loving and devoted wife to Felix Justus Rödder of Manhattan, NY and a loving and devoted daughter. 

Early in life, Ashley was a uniquely gifted human being interested in dance and art. She was pre-empted in dance education at a very young age, dancing nationally and internationally, receiving high honors and awards. Having performed in high school and three local studios, performing in a variety of dance styles including ballet, contemporary, jazz and lyrical, Ashley advanced to the McGowan professional Dance company at age 14. Ashley achieved recognition as a majorette, cheerleader, and participated in basketball, track, softball, and lacrosse. Ashley was awarded in several pageants, including the Miss Teen West Virginia Pageant placing second runner up and winning the Miss Teen West Virginia State Community Service Award. Ashley received several youth advisory government appointments including her role as a youth on the West Virginia Human Rights Commission.

She graduated from University High School in Morgantown where she excelled in academics and won three scholarships to college. After graduation, she went on to pursue and earn a degree in Art History from Marymount Manhattan College. Determined and committed to her love of art, she later earned a Master of Fine Arts degree in Modern and Contemporary Art from Sotheby’s Institute of Art.

Ashley’s passion for life poured into those whom she encountered in the private and public world. She was compassionate, empathetic, encouraging, and inspirational. Known for her quick wit, her style and grace, and determination to persevere. Most importantly, she was a child of God and God was in her heart. 

As a prominent and deeply respected art world professional, Ashley is known for her role as a director at Gagosian, and previously at Salon 94 and David Zwirner. She was a relentless advocate for her artists, someone whose smile would light up an entire room, and she was memorably seen and heard by anyone she encountered. She was also involved in Gagosian's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee and served on the boards of Performa and the Children's Art Guild. 

In addition to her husband and parents, Ashley will be fondly remembered by her maternal grandparents: Mr. Bob G. & Louise Smith; David Devon Smith. In-laws: Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Rödder, Mr. & Mrs. Max Rödder (niece, Antonia); Aunts and Uncles & Cousins: Ms. Jennifer Smith, Mrs. Audrey Moye (Delaney & Harold), Mr. and Mrs. Dennis (Marquetta) Hosey (Demar and Marde), Mr. & Mrs. Donald (Jacquelyn) Penn (Ty, Coy & Nya); Aunt Gerri and Aunt Diane; Uncles: Mr. Bobby Smith and Mr. Marvin Stewart and family, Mrs. Kristen Stewart (Anire Okorodudu), Autumn Stewart, Matthew Stewart, Danielle Stewart, Cousins and Special cousins, Mr. and Mrs. Tracy Shepperson (Julie Dawn), Rebecca, Sherill & family. And a host of other nieces, nephews and cousins in the Weldon/Turner family.

Funeral arrangements are provided by Frank E. Campbell – The Funeral Chapel, Upper East Side, on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm. 

A private burial/committal service will be officiated by the Wallace and Wallace Funeral Home in

Historic Lewisburg, West Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Performa, 100 West 23rd Street, 5th Floor, New York, New York 10011, US, or online at https://secure.givelively.org/donate/performa-inc/gifts-to-performa-in-honor-of-ashley-stewart-rodder