Gloria Jean Thompson Ashley

Gloria Jean Thompson Ashley, 77, passed peacefully at her home on January 4, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Gloria was born on May 2, 1948, in Danville, Illinois, to Frank Fitzgerald Thompson and Mary Hughes Thompson. Her father was a proud World War II Navy veteran, and due to his service, Gloria spent much of her childhood moving with her family. She graduated from high school in San Diego, California.

Following her graduation, the Thompson family relocated to Stephens Cove, Virginia, where her mother had been born and raised. It was there that Gloria met Henry Thomas Ashley “H.T.” who lived just one farm over. One year later, on February 10, 1968, they were married at Calvary Baptist Church in Lovingston, Virginia. Together, Henry and Gloria built a home on the Ashley family farm, where they raised their loving family. They were blessed with three daughters: Ellen Ashley McGregor (Taylor McGregor, Jr.), Chanda Ashley Zemon (Andy Zemon), and Tara Ashley Truitt (Kyle Truitt), and cherished grandchildren Taylor and Mason McGregor; Stella, Libby, Henry, and Hattie Zemon; and Zane and Reese Truitt. Henry preceded her in death on March 30, 2015, after 47 years of marriage.

Gloria was fortunate to meet Mr. William “Bill” Clark of Lynchburg, Virginia, who was her loving companion and special friend. Bill shared eight and a half meaningful years with Gloria and was an extraordinary source of strength, companionship, and love throughout her courageous three-and-a-half-year battle with cancer. He became an important and cherished part of the family, and the grandchildren lovingly refer to him as “Mr. Bill,” as many did not have the opportunity to meet their grandfather, H.T., who passed away before they were born.

A deeply devoted mother and grandmother, Gloria poured her love into her family in countless ways. She loved to cook and was an avid baker, often sharing meals and homemade treats as expressions of care and generosity. She was especially passionate about quilting and was an active member of a quilt guild that met weekly—something she truly cherished. Over her lifetime, Gloria made countless quilts, each one crafted with patience, skill, and love. Her quilts remain as heirlooms of warmth and devotion, lovingly crafted and deeply cherished.

In addition to quilting, Gloria was a gifted sewer and ceramist. She created many treasured items for her family throughout the years, including Christmas stockings, tooth fairy tooth holders, table runners, pillowcases, pageant dresses, and nearly anything else that was needed.

Though she was always hopeful her children might one day share her love of sewing, and made many attempts to teach them—none ever quite took to it, a fact she accepted with good humor and a smile.

Gloria also loved to travel and embraced opportunities to see the world. She enjoyed many trips and cruises to destinations across the globe, experiences she cherished and often shared with family and friends through stories and memories.

She spent the majority of her professional career working as a paralegal for the law offices of Kenneth Farrar and W. Thomas Berry, where she formed lasting friendships and was respected for her dedication, professionalism, and kindness.

A generous servant to her community, Gloria volunteered countless hours with the Nelson County Rotary, where she also served as President, and with the Nelson County Public Library, where she served as a member of the Board. Through her service, creativity, and unwavering love for her family, Gloria leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations.

In addition to her children, grandchildren, and many close family and friends, Gloria is survived by her sister, Vicki Scott of Luray, and her niece and nephew, Dustin and Jennifer.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at Calvary Baptist Church in Lovingston, Virginia. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the church, with the funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Tyler Lucas and Pastor John Campbell officiating.

 Interment will be at Mountain View Cemetery in Lovingston following the service. The family invites all who attend to return to Calvary Baptist Church following the interment for a meal.

The family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the amazing ladies with Simply S & B, LLC who so lovingly cared for Gloria during her final two weeks of life at home. Their compassion, kindness, and dedication brought great comfort to both Gloria and her family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gloria’s honor may be made to Almost Home: Nelson County SPCA 29 Stagebridge Road, Lovingston, Virginia 22949.

Arrangements by Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovingston (434-263-4097).