Kenneth Edward Ashley

Kenneth Edward Ashley, of Batesville, Arkansas, formerly of Viola, Arkansas, son of the late Harry Ashley and Julia Clark Ashley, was born December 15, 1934 in Viola, Arkansas.  He died  Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at White River Medical Center in Batesville, Arkansas, at the age of  82 years and 20 days. 

He was united in marriage to Carolyn Freeman at Batesville, Arkansas September 18, 1997.  He had two children, and a beloved step-daughter.  Kenneth served his country in the United States Navy proudly for twenty-two years.  After leaving the Navy he became a truck driver and did so until he retired.  He was a member of both the VFW and American Legion and he was of the Baptist Faith. 

Survivors include his wife Carolyn Ashley of the family home; his children: Shawn Marie Ashley of Batesville, Arkansas, and James Michael Ashley and wife Amy of Batesville, Arkansas, and step-daughter, Rhonda Johnson and husband Curtis also of Batesville, Arkansas; three grandchildren: Shanna Tunstall, Zane Allen, and Heather Beauford; five great-grandchildren; two sisters; Edna Jo LaFaver and husband Steve of Viola, Arkansas, and Shirley Ashley Sessions and husband Don of South Carolina; and many other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by two brothers: Jack Ashley, and Russell Ashley; two sisters, LaVern Fry, and Jane Powers; and his father and mother.

Funeral services are Saturday, January 7, 2017 at Cox-Blevins Chapel beginning at 1 pm.   Burial will follow in Viola Cemetery in Viola, Arkansas.  Bro. Larry Ring will be officiating.

Arrangements entrusted to Cox-Blevins Funeral Home of Salem, Arkansas.  Sign the online guest book at coxblevinsfuneralhome.com