Ashley Gartland passed away suddenly on Thanksgiving Day, 11/27/2025. She was my classmate from the class of 2004, and anyone who had the pleasure of meeting her knows she was a pure, kind, and loving person. Since her passing, I have received so many messages from people sharing how Ashley would reach out in hard times, even to those she wasn’t especially close with. She always seemed to know when someone needed a kind word or a little extra encouragement, and she never hesitated to offer it. She did this for me on more than one occasion—Ashley was truly a bright light on dark days, and her compassion touched so many lives.

Ashley leaves behind her daughter, Brookelyn, who now faces the unimaginable pain of saying goodbye to her mother and best friend. Brookelyn is a young girl with so much on her shoulders, having to navigate life without Ashley’s guidance and love. Ashley is also survived by her wonderful mother, Chris Van Amburg, and her stepfather, Randy. Their family has already endured the heartbreak of losing their older son, Joey, and now they are faced with another devastating loss. The sadness that has touched their lives is profound, and the last thing anyone wants them to worry about is financial strain while they grieve and honor Ashley’s memory.

This fundraiser is to help cover funeral expenses, memorial costs, and any financial obligations that Ashley’s family will now need to manage. Our small town has always come together in times of need, and I hope we can do the same for Ashley’s family. Your support will help ease their burden and provide comfort as they process this difficult time. Please consider donating or sharing to help this wonderful family as they say goodbye to an amazing person.