Born and raised in Mineola, New York, she earned advanced degrees in both Spanish and Psychology at Rutgers University in New Jersey and was a member of Phi Beta Kappa Society. After teaching Spanish in the Piscataway, New Jersey school system she and her late husband John moved to Puerto Rico. There she combined her interests in Spanish and Psychology and worked with children with learning disabilities. She earned a doctorate in education and served as school principals and as superintendent of the San Juan Diocese.
The Ashbys resided in Puerto Rico for 20 years, thoroughly embracing the Puerto Rican culture and were dearly loved and respected on the island.
Since 1993 she and Mr. Ashby enjoyed their home in Naples, always with a furry companion. As a retirement project, Mrs. Ashby earned a law degree.
She is survived by her son Mark (Eileen) Ashby of Manchester, New Jersey and daughter, Susan Ashby. Services will be private.
