Diana Ashley

Diana Marie Ashley, passed peacefully surrounded by her loving family, on Friday July 19th, 2024. She was born on May 5th, 1941in Battle Creek Michigan to Richard and Juanita (McLiechey) Smith. She was united in marriage to the late Mack Ashley Jr. of Albion MI. Known to most as “Diane” and affectionately known as “Grammie” to her beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren. Diane lovingly assumed the role of a mother, homemaker, and for a short while, food manufacturer at Interbake foods, a receptionist at White’s Beauty Salon, and sales representative for The Diana Shop in downtown Battle Creek! Family was everything to her and she made it her life’s mission to ensure her family was well loved and cared for. Diane was a direct descendant of Sojourner Truth! A legacy she was proud to share with her family. She enjoyed baking the best rum cake in the world, along with other irresistible sweet treats! She loved swimming, gardening, and fixing things! There was nothing her roll of duct tape or hammer couldn’t fix! She loved hosting family gatherings and reunions at her home, where she taught her children, grandchildren, and neighborhood children how to swim. Diane had a zeal for life and loved helping others, but had no problem telling you like it was! She never shied away from speaking her mind or setting the record straight if needed. It was her tough love that helped guide everyone she loved and cared for. If she didn’t fuss at you, you wouldn’t know she loved you! The best part about her life is when she gave it to the Lord in her latter years. We knew then that it wouldn’t be goodbye, only see you later. We don’t grieve as those with no hope. 1 Thessalonians 4:13 Diane is survived by her children, Sherri Martine Ashley of Battle Creek and Charles DaShawn (Jenny) Ashley also of Battle Creek; special sister/cousin, Loretta Eason of California; special niece/daughter, Anika Eanes; special daughter, Vasanta “Pidda” (Wayne) Averheart Thompson of Battle Creek; special son, Tony Mcknight of Texas; grandchildren, Shayla Marie Glasper, Martila Maei (Olalekan) Sanders, Niko Wayne Ashley, Jayden (Madison) Ashley, and Tyler Ashley; special grandson, Mitchell Gordon; special granddaughter, Taylor Evans; great-grandchildren, Amari Tai Ashley, Kharma Mikel Ashley, Naveen Isiah Ashley, Kieanna Marie Cvetnic, Marah June Evans, Eli Alexander James Ashley, and Naelannie Nicole Ashley, all of Battle Creek; also leaves to cherish a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents; grandparents; husband; son, Michael Anthony Ashley “Tony”; siblings, Anne (Willie) Williams, Barbara Eanes, Jerry (Carol) Smith, and Patrick (Victoria) Smith; and special daughter, Michelle (Ebin) Yvonne Grissom. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of love and support shown at this most difficult time. Every act of kindness no matter how large or small is greatly appreciated. A very special thank you to a dear family friend/Nurse, Kristy (Tony) Carpita, Hospice Nurse Sarah and nurse aid, Brittany. At Diane’s request cremation has already taken place. Details of a memorial service in her honor will be announced at a later date per the family. To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Diana’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory or photo, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com Till we meet again… Grammie❤️ “We love you, a bushel and a peck A bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck, a barrel and a heap, we’ll be talkin' in our sleep about you!” 🎶🎵💕 To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Diana Ashley, please visit our flower store.