On October 14, 2023, an Angel of the Lord came to earth and took our beloved one away to a peaceful sleep.

Willie Howard “Butch” Ash was born in Portsmouth, Virginia on December 27, 1947. He was the sixth child born to the union of Edward Garland Ash, Sr. and Brittee Camay Smith Ash.

Willie was educated in the Portsmouth Public School System. He graduated from Israel Charles Norcom High School (June 1968) and served in the U. S. Air Force during the Vietnam War Era. He was proud to be a veteran.

Over the years Willie was employed by several agencies including local shipyards and Lillian Vernon. However, he was best known as being a self-employed handyman, painter and co-owner of W & M Enterprises.

Willie came to know Jesus Christ as a child and was a member of Zion Baptist Church. He sang in the Junior Choir and served as an usher. He later changed his membership to Marian’s (wife) home church, First Baptist Church West Norfolk.

Willie was a friendly, encouraging person who was always willing to help others whenever he could. Although he had a quiet spirit, he was ready to share his opinion and held firm to his beliefs, often heard during bible study and meetings.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters Brittee, Vernell and Luceil, his brother Edward, Jr. and several aunts and uncles (especially Uncle Walker). He leaves to cherish his memory: his wife of forty-seven years, Marian Edwards Ash, his daughter, Samantha Ash, and granddaughter, Ava Ash; his sisters Elizabeth Cross and Addie Ash; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

His memorial service will be on October 28, 2023 at 1pm at First Baptist Church West Norfolk 3603 Jordan Lane Portsmouth, VA 23703.