Nancy Ashley Leo

The Honorable Nancy Ashley Leo, age 64, of Modesto, CA, passed away peacefully at her home on July 29, 2024, after a courageous year long battle with cancer. She was surrounded by loved ones, including her devoted husband, Douglas Leo.

Nancy was born on August 25, 1959, in Santa Monica, CA, to John and Jean Ashley. Nancy was raised in Woodland Hills, California, attended El Camino Real High School, and was active in Bethel #100, International Order of Job’s Daughters, where she served as honored Queen. After graduating high school, she attended California State University, Northridge, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing in 1981. Her passion for law led her to further studies at Santa Barbara College of Law, where she obtained her J.D. before passing the California Bar in 1990. Nancy began her distinguished legal career at the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s office. In 1996, she was elected to the Stanislaus County Municipal Court, and two years later, she was elevated to the Stanislaus County Superior Court. For 27 years, Nancy served as a judge, primarily presiding over criminal cases. Despite the often challenging nature of these cases, she was known for her thoughtful, kind, and deliberate approach, treating everyone in her courtroom with the utmost respect.

Nancy had a deep love for Hawaii, a place she considered her second home. She married Douglas Leo in a beautiful ceremony on Oahu on August 22, 2019. For much of her adult life, she made annual trips to Oahu, enjoying month-long vacations with her beloved mother, Jean, who passed away on September 10, 2009. Nancy’s remains will be laid to rest aside her mother’s at Lakewood Cemetery.

Nancy’s passions extended beyond the courtroom. She was an avid music lover, especially of classic rock, with a particular fondness for The Beatles, as well as the timeless voices of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. She was also known for her baking, delighting friends and family each year with her famous Christmas cookies.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Douglas Leo; her stepdaughters Jennifer Leo (John Ludlow) and their children Logan, Luke, and Landon of Modesto, CA; Julie Smith (Tyler) and their children Brielle and Everett of Modesto, CA. She also leaves behind her brother, John Ashley (Dianne ) of Santa Clarita, CA, her niece Lauren Barmasse (Jason), and her nephew Christopher Ashley (Kellie). She is also survived by her brother Grant Ashley (Linda) of Highlands Ranch, CO. Also surviving are beloved grand nephews and niece.

A memorial service will be held in Nancy’s honor at the Heritage Chapel at Lakewood Cemetery in Hughson, CA, at noon on August 10th. A private burial will follow.