Vanessa Gail Ashton

Vanessa Gail Ashton lived a life defined by love, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family. Born on October 11, 1954, she built a life filled with kindness, love, and countless memories that will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

Vanessa spent the first few years of her life in St. Paul, Minnesota. From an early age, she loved school, and when her family moved to California when she was 8 years old, that love of learning only continued to grow. She had a passion for writing and served as a writer, and eventually editor in chief, for her high school and college newspapers. Vanessa was also a leader on her high school drill team.

It was during these formative years that Vanessa’s greatest love story began. She and her husband, Daniel, were childhood neighbors who grew into high school sweethearts. They built a beautiful life together that spanned more than five decades. Their marriage was grounded in friendship, loyalty, patience, and a deep love for one another.

As Vanessa grew into adulthood, she carried that same warmth and commitment into everything she did. Throughout her life, she enjoyed serving others. She owned Pizza Royal, a beloved local restaurant. She also found joy working in education first as a preschool teacher and later supported students through her work and volunteer service at Carnelian Elementary School, where she served as an instructional aide, PTA volunteer, and dedicated member of the school community.

While she found fulfillment in her work and service, family was always the heart of Vanessa’s life. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and an incredibly proud grandmother. She spent countless weekends supporting her children and eventually her grandchildren, enthusiastically cheering them on from the sidelines of countless soccer and football games, band concerts, and dance recitals. She was always their number one fan.

Vanessa believed the best memories were made together, and she poured her heart into creating traditions that brought her family close. Holidays were among her favorite times of year, and Christmas, especially, held a special place in her heart. She lovingly made homemade chocolates for many family gatherings and became known for creating beautiful chocolate sleighs during the holidays, often making enough for every child in Carrie and Michael’s classrooms. She found genuine joy in giving, and no celebration ever felt complete without one of her thoughtful creations.

Vanessa loved traveling with her family, and some of her happiest memories were made during treasured trips to Yosemite, Lake Havasu, Disneyland, and other adventures with her loved ones.

In the quieter moments of life, Vanessa appreciated simple pleasures and the special bonds she shared with her grandchildren. She spent countless hours reading books, watching their favorite TV shows or movies, and learning new things together. Those moments became treasured memories that reflected the close bond they shared.

More than anything, Vanessa will be remembered for the way she loved. She celebrated life’s milestones, supported her family through every season, and found happiness in making others smile. Vanessa leaves behind her beloved husband, Daniel Ashton; their puppy, Buck; her daughter, Carrie, and son-in-law, Fernando; her son, Michael, and daughter-in-law, Kristen, along with their sons, Ethan and Dylan; and her son, David, and daughter-in-law, Nicole, along with their children, Hazel and Lennox.

Though her presence will be deeply missed, the traditions she created, the love she gave, and the memories she made will continue to live on through the family she cherished above all else.

In honor of Vanessa's love for the students of Carnelian Elementary School, our family is partnering with the school to install a Buddy Bench on the kindergarten playground, where she spent so much of her time. A Buddy Bench is a place where children can sit when they need a friend, encouraging kindness, inclusion, and connection. If you would like to help make this tribute possible, donations may be made through Zelle at 909-957-2530 or by Venmo: kashton619. Thank you for honoring Vanessa's legacy of love and compassion.