Robert Lee Ashton's Obituary
My father, Robert Lee Ashton, was born on February 8, 1933, in Shreveport, Louisiana, and he went home to our Lord on April 19, 2026. Robert was the second son of Simon Ashton and Marie Marshall. He was married to Josephine Ashton, and they shared 62 years before Josephine joined the Lord. He is survived by his daughter, Linda Ashton, his grandchildren, Brittany and David, and one great-granddaughter, Adrienne . He was preceded in death by his brothers, Simon Ashton, John Benard Clifton Ashton, Leon Ashton, and his sister, Mary Louise Ashton.
My father served with distinction in the United States Coast Guard, enlisted during both the Korean and Vietnam wars prior to his retirement. He subsequently established his residence in Garland, Texas, alongside his cherished wife, Josephine Ashton, and their daughter. His most notable achievement was enlisting in the military to serve his nation with integrity, for which he received the Bronze Star for Valour. The family often recounted stories of the difficulties he faced on his path to rising in rank to Chief Petty Officer. He would express that the military offered him a way to support his family while serving his country. It was an environment where he was evaluated based on his job performance rather than his background. After concluding his military service, Robert made his home in Garland, TX, and engaged in his daughter's school activities. Both he and his wife actively supported the band as enthusiastic boosters.
Roberts' early years were filled with difficulties; however, these experiences did not foster resentment. I recall him sharing stories of witnessing a hanging, seeing his mother pass away from complications during childbirth as the hospital denied her admission, and being deprived of the chance to attend public school as he had to work to support the family. My father despised the injustices faced by others, which motivated him to support his wife's efforts to engage in community activities aimed at enhancing children's access to higher education and employment opportunities. This conviction led them to teach English. I remember several occasions when my parents would invite the children over to celebrate their birthdays at either Red Lobster or Golden Corral. Golden Corral was their preferred establishment. My parents firmly believed that a quality education was the sole means by which an individual could elevate their circumstances. They took immense pride whenever a relative graduated from high school or pursued their aspirations of attending college. Robert was a well-known figure in the neighborhood, having been the original owner of his residence and having observed new families settling into the block. He took great pride in his yard, and if there were ever a contest for the greenest yard, he would undoubtedly emerge victorious. Each day, he would step outside to sweep the sidewalks and rake not only his own yard but also those of his neighbors. He took immense pride in both his home and his community. His neighbors often remarked that they would see him sweeping in front of their houses and providing tips on lawn maintenance. Both of my parents held the belief that it takes a village to look after one another.
In the later years of his life, Robert took joy in volunteering at Second Chapel Baptist Church of Garland, helping out wherever he was needed. He was always the first to arrive at the church, and whenever something required repair, he was quick to find a solution. The fellowship of the church, led by Rev. C.A. Williams Sr., will deeply miss him.
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