Ashley A Jenkins

CELEBRATING A LIFE OF LOVE

May 27, 1988 - August 12, 2026

Ashley was born May 27, 1988, in Courtland, New York, she was the only child of the late Ella Mae Jenkins. She is deeply missed by her beloved companion of 15 years, John Garzon, her family, her friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

She was a unique and unforgettable person-spirited, funny, loyal, compassionate, and unapologetically herself. One of her closest friends, who met her in elementary school, remembers seeing "the most adorable and sassy girl" she had ever encountered. Even as a young girl, she had no trouble expressing her feelings and opinions. That same spirit remained throughout her life. She was original, extraordinary, and never afraid to be exactly who she was.

She was adventurous and curious about life, always willing to take a leap and encourage those around her to step beyond their comfort zones. She loved traveling, discovering new restaurants, and cheering for the Patriots and the Bills. She earned an A.A.S. degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management from Tompkins Cortland Community College in 2007 and later worked at The Dewberry Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina.

She had a tender heart for the animals she loved. Buddy, her cat, and her dogs Autumn, Mango, and Stella were cherished companions and an important part of her everyday life. The love and care she gave them reflected the warmth and loyalty that came so naturally to her. She was deeply devoted to her mother, Ella Mae, and their bond was a special one. Her mother was immensely proud of her, and she loved her dearly. Their relationship remained one of the great loves of her life, and the loss of her mother was deeply felt.

Those who knew her best remember the extraordinary light she brought into their lives. Her friendships reached back to childhood and grew through the years, filled with laughter, adventures, travels, and memories. Friends remember her as funny, vibrant, fiercely herself, loyal, compassionate, and always ready to make someone smile-even on the hardest days. One lifelong friend described her as "love in human form," while another remembered the "adorable and sassy girl" she first met as a child. Her infectious laughter and the light she carried will remain with them.

PRECEDED IN DEATH

Ella Mae Jenkins - mother, Courtland, NY

Ella Jenkins Ragland - grandmother, Wadmalaw Island, SC

Arthur Lee "Kaiser" Jenkins - grandfather, Wadmalaw Island, SC

Jacqueline "Jackie" Carrol - aunt, Hempstead, Long Island, NY

Leroy Jenkins - uncle, Wadmalaw Island, SC

Alicia "Penny" Jenkins - aunt, Cortland, NY

Loretta Pracher - aunt, Bellevue, IL

Fredrick Jenkins - uncle, Bronx, NY

SURVIVED BY

Mollie Jenkins - aunt, Charleston, SC

Robert Jenkins - uncle, Charleston, SC

Vicki Jenkins Robinson (Jack) - Wichita, KS

Coral Lee Ragland - aunt, New York City

Malcolm Ragland - uncle, New York City

Joyce Simmons - great-aunt, Wadmalaw Island, SC

a host of cousins

and her beloved companion, John Garzon

Though your time with us was short, you leave behind love, laughter, and cherished memories. May the Lord receive you into His eternal care, grant you everlasting peace, and bring comfort to all who mourn your passing.