Leonard Lee Ashby

Leonard Lee Ashby, 84, of Gastonia and formerly of Washington, North Carolina went to his heavenly home on Thursday April 27, 2023. Leonard is a native of Danville, Virginia. He is a graduate of George Washington High School and obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering at Virginia Polytechnic Institute (VPI). Leonard worked various jobs in the manufacturing industry including plant manager and vice president positions.

Leonard’s Christianity was apparent in all he did. His son Preston recalls repeatedly seeing his dad on his knees praying. He led his family through Christ in their daily devotions and showed love and kindness to others throughout his life. Leonard was a long-term and well-respected member of Gideon’s International. He distributed Bibles domestically and internationally, even traveling to Brazil to give away Bibles.

Leonard was also an avid golfer, loved watersports, and enjoyed spending time with his family.

Leonard was born in Danville, Virginia on November 17, 1938, son of the late Joseph Edward Ashby Jr. and Eron Ashby South. In addition to his parents, he is proceeded in death by his son John Mark Ashby.

Left to cherish their memories of Leonard and to carry on his legacy are his wife of 46 years, Susan Ashby, daughter Kimberly Ashby, son Stephen Ashby and son Preston Ashby (Diana). Grieving the loss of their grandfather are his granddaughter Hannah Ashby, and grandson Justin Murr (Jerilyn). Leonard leaves behind his sister Sylvia Flynn as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other extended family members.

The family will receive friends from 11:00am to 12:00 pm on Monday, May 1st, 2023, at Carothers Funeral Home, 2205 Williamsburg Drive, Gastonia, followed by the funeral service at 12:00 pm, officiated by Reverend Bob Gilley with the music directed by Keith Johnson. Entombment will follow at Mausoleum D at Gaston Memorial Park. Preston Ashby, Todd Gilreath, Jeremy Mills, David Ward, Keith Johnson, and Brian Bolton will serve as pallbearers.

Fond memories of Leonard and condolences for the family may be left at www.carothersfuneralhomegastonia.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Leonard’s name to either Carolina Caring Hospice, 3957 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658 or www.carolinacaring.org , Gideon’s International, P.O. Box 2578, Washington, NC 27889, or South Gastonia Church of God, 310 Carolina Avenue, Gastonia, NC 28052.

The staff of Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park and the staff of Gaston Memorial Park is honored to serve the Ashby Family.