Vanessa Gail Ashton

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Vanessa Gail Ashton, 71, of Alta Loma, California, who entered into eternal rest on June 12, 2026. Born on October 11, 1954, Vanessa will be remembered with deep love, admiration, and gratitude by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Throughout her life, Vanessa dedicated herself to serving others. She was the proud owner of Pizza Royal, a beloved local gathering place, and spent many years nurturing and supporting children as a preschool teacher and school employee. Her commitment to education and her community continued through her volunteer work at Carnelian Elementary School, where she generously gave her time as an instructional aide, PTA supporter, and caring presence to countless students and families.

Vanessa’s love story with her husband, Daniel Ashton, began long before they exchanged vows. Childhood neighbors who became high school sweethearts, they built a life together rooted in loyalty, friendship, and unwavering devotion. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love, partnership, and family.

Above all else, Vanessa cherished her family. She took great joy in supporting her children and grandchildren, celebrating their accomplishments, attending their activities, and creating memories that will be treasured forever. Her love was felt not only in grand gestures, but in the countless everyday moments of kindness, encouragement, and care that defined who she was.

Vanessa found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She loved country music and oldies, and her favorite song was You’ll Be in My Heart by Phil Collins. She enjoyed science fiction, Christmas movies, Hocus Pocus, and Tarzan. She treasured time spent traveling to Yosemite National Park, Lake Havasu, Disneyland, and her mountain cabin. She loved trying new foods and never passed up a good snack—especially licorice and gummy candies.

A talented chocolatier, Vanessa delighted in creating homemade chocolates to share with family and friends. Her generosity, compassion, and gentle spirit touched everyone she met. She leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and devotion that will continue to live on through those she guided, supported, and cherished. Her familiar words, “Love you to the moon and back,” remain a lasting reminder of the boundless love she gave so freely.

Vanessa was preceded in death by her father, Philip Fladland, and her mother-in-law, Carol Ashton.

She is lovingly survived by her husband, Daniel Ashton; their beloved puppy, Buck; her daughter, Carrie, and Carrie’s husband, Fernando; her son, Michael, and Michael’s wife, Kristen, and their children, Ethan and Dylan; and her son, David, and David’s wife, Nicole, and their children, Hazel and Lennox.

A memorial service celebrating Vanessa’s life will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Draper Mortuary in Ontario, California.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Vanessa’s memory to contribute toward the installation of a Buddy Bench on the kindergarten playground at Carnelian Elementary School, a tribute that reflects her lifelong love of children, kindness, and community. Donations collected will help create a lasting place of friendship, inclusion, and connection for future generations of students. Donations can be sent to Michael Ashton through Zelle @ (909) 957-2530 or through Venmo @kashton619.

Though she is deeply missed, Vanessa’s love, laughter, and caring spirit will remain forever in the hearts of her family and friends.