On Sunday, August 11, 2019, Raymond Lee Ashford, loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather passed away at the age of 75.
Raymond was born on October 23, 1943 in Waldron, Arkansas to Bryan and Alta Mae Ashford. They made the trek to California in the 40’s to start a new life in the Central Valley of California. Raymond Ashford worked continuously from the time he could hold a tool in his hand to the end. He married Ruth (Kurtz) Ashford on May 31, 1964. They raised three daughters, Melinda, Alane and Mary as well as one son Bryan.
Ray was an amazing machinist. He owned and operated Ashford Machine shop for 45 years. There was never a job that he took without modifying it to make it work better, faster or stronger. He was able to add his influence and knowledge on those who worked for him and with him. Ray loved fast cars. The best times were in the machine shop creating and tuning those engines.
Ray was preceded in death by his father Bryan and mother Alta Mae as well as his son Bryan.
He is survived by his wife Ruth; his three daughters Melinda (Mindy), Alane, and Mary; grandchildren, Dory, Darcy, Dustin, Ryder, Jordan, Lauren, Katelyn; and great-granddaughter Molly.
