Deborah Louise Ash

Deborah Louise Ash, cherished mother, grandmother, renowned cookie maven and passionate crocheter of Queens, Brooklyn,Columbia, SC, and Charlotte, NC, peacefully departed this life December 6th, 2023. Born and raised in the lively neighborhood of Bushwick, Brooklyn, Deborah was a true New Yorker at heart. As a Senior Administrator Retiree of the New York City Department of Education, she practically ran the Bushwick Highland Community Center. She discovered her passion for cooking while at the center, and even after her departure from the borough, she continued to patron the center any chance she had which made her legendary in that community. In pursuit of new adventures, Deborah made a move to the southern charm of Columbia, SC. in 2009. After spending many years in the hustle and bustle of New York City, Deborah gracefully transitioned into Southern living. Embracing the slower pace, warm hospitality, and distinctive charm of the South, she quickly acclimated to a lifestyle that contrasted with the vibrant energy of the city that she had called home for so long. Deborah seamlessly adapted to the welcoming communities, savoring the rich traditions and flavors that define Southern living. Several years after her initial move, Deborah relocated to Charlotte, NC, where she seamlessly integrated her Brooklyn roots into the fabric of the city Deborah was a cherished friend, confidant, and mentor to many. She touched the lives of those around her with her infectious sense of optimism and genuine compassion. Deborah had a remarkable ability to make you feel welcomed, making her stand out in any crowd. Surrounded by love, she has now found eternal rest and is joyfully reunited with her beloved parents, Joseph & Helen Ash as well as her brother Joseph Ash, Jr. May Deborah find comfort and solace in the warm embrace of those who have gone ahead, and may the cherished memories of her life bring solace to those left behind. Deborah’s legacy lives on through her son Christopher Allen Ash, her daughter-in-law, Pamela Regina Ash; her grand children Jayla Sabrina Ash and Christopher “CeeJay” Allen Ash, Jr. She also leaves to celebrate her memory her sister-in-law Rutha Ash and nieces Tonya Ash, Toya Ash, Natasha Ash; god-daughter Ariele Watson Kitt; godson Kaseam Jamison and sister/best friends Theresa “Rita” Moore and Uraina Jamison, along with a host of cousins, family and friends. May Deborah rest in eternal peace, her memory forever preserved in the sweet legacy she leaves and the warmth she shared with all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Deborah Louise Ash

February 25, 1950 - December 6, 2023