Ashley Dawn Holder, 38, of Lawrence, KS, passed away February 21, 2024, at her home.
She was born January 23, 1986 in Lawrence, KS. She was the daughter of Richard and Judy (Hattabaugh) Holder and the youngest of 4 children.
Ashley graduated from Lawrence High School in 2004. She went on to become a CNA, CMA and later became the Transportation Coordinator for Tonganoxie Terrace, in Tonganoxie, KS. It was here that she found a deep love for caring for others, especially the elderly population. She loved her job and was an example of “you can do anything you put your mind to.” She was 5 feet tall and drove her nursing home bus with ease, always ensuring her residents arrived at their much needed appointments.
Ashley was known for having a huge heart for everyone. She was selfless, always putting others above herself. She had the ability to see the best in people. Ashley had a bright personality, was the life of the party and known for being fun. She was always happy and had an infectious smile that would light up any room. She loved the Jayhawks, Royals and KC Chiefs. She was always up for a good watch party, arriving decked out in all her fan gear, and let’s not forget her red lipstick. Ashley often babysat for her nephews and other young family members, she was also a great dog sitter. She was always willing to help out where needed. She had a love for shopping and loved to give, always putting great thought into the gifts she gave. She was a wonderful daughter, sister, niece, aunt, and last, but not least, friend. She loved to talk, and was always a listening ear. Ashley had a profound love for animals. While she didn’t have children of her own, she considered her two dogs her “fur babies” and spoiled them with love. Ashley loved a good day at the pool or beach, soaking up the sunshine, spending time with her sisters or friends.
Ashley is survived by her parents, Richard and Judy Holder, of Lawrence, sister, Jennifer Edwards (David), of Lawrence, sister, Melissa Saline (Clint), of Tecumseh, and brother, Jim Holder, of Lawrence.
Other survivors include five nephews, Josh, Nick, Weston, Wyatt and Walker, one niece, Sophia, and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. She is also survived by her fur babies, Bella and Miles.
Ashley was predeceased by maternal grandparents, Otis and Alma (Poynter) Hattabaugh, paternal grandparents, George and Betty (Merchant) Holder, and nephew, Bradley.
Friends and loved ones will gather on Monday, March 4, 2024, from 10-11 AM at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home. The funeral will directly follow at 11 AM.
Private Interment will take place at Clinton Cemetery at a later date.
The Family suggests memorials be sent to Douglas County Humane Society or St. Jude’s, sent in care of the funeral home.
We love you auntie holder🕊️🕊️🕊️
I was friends with Ashley in elementary school and have many good memories of her and I at the skating rink! We had many birthday parties together over the years in elementary school and I remember her as fun and bubbly. I’m so sorry to her family and friends for their loss.
Prayers to your family in this time of loss.
Judy, I’m sorry for your family’s loss. I didn’t know your daughter, you babysat me and my sister when we were young. My parents were good friends of Wayne and all your siblings. May God comfort you. Prayers for you and your family.
Ladybug, I’m going to truly miss you. The medical field loss a true big hearted young lady! I’ve worked with her since the beginning of our medical training started 2002. She was the most positive person I knew, always with a smile and great attitude, even on our worst days when nothing seem to work in our favor. She helped and touched so many lives, including mine during the hardest moments of my life. Due to that, she called me momma and I called her ladybug 🐞. Always full of life, team leader, passionate, loving, my beastie at work many nights. My deepest condolences to her family, fur babies, and friends. See ya later ladybug
Sending prayers to the family, for comfort, support, strength and so much love. Ashley was a fun, gentle and loving person. I am so very sorry for your loss.
I am so very sorry for your loss. My memories of Ashley were always so positive and nurturing!!🙏🏾
John and I know what you’re going through. We pray for you and your family. We never know why but we try and get through it.
I miss her everyday. She was always there to listen to my deepest secrets and crys. I love her forever. Holder i called her. She was the bestest friend i had.
Judy and Richard, I’m so sorry for your loss of a child. I only got to meet Ashley once and she was a very sweet young lady. My prayers are with you.
Ashely was such a great person, I’ll never forget how happy of a person she was, she was a great friend, co worker and she is loved by many. I can hear her now coming down the hallway to my office “oh Shanelle I need you” Ashley your Tonganoixe Terrace family will miss you.
Heart felt condolences 🙏 to Richard and Judy . To all the extended family .
Ashley was such a caring and giving person that always wore a smile that could light up any room that she entered. She will truly be missed by family and adoring friends. I am thankful to have known her and called her my friend for so many years. Prayers and my deepest condolences to her loved ones.
Markus “DJ BIZ” Logan