Ashley Brooke Sewell was born on September 10, 1981, in Lubbock, Texas. She was the daughter of Gant and Janice Weaks, the big sister to Courtney Weaks aka Pookie, the wife of Russell Sewell, and the mother of Hudson and Sophia Sewell – who brought her immense joy every day. She was the granddaughter of Fred and Phyllis Willingham, a beloved niece to many, an aunt, and a cherished cousin to countless others. She was also the daughter-in-law of Dan and Pam Sewell and the sister-in-law of Michelle Sauceda, husband Tony and their daughter Emma. Above all, Ashley was a devoted friend and an unwavering encourager to everyone who knew her.
Ashley graduated with honors from Monterey High School and earned her degree in Early Childhood Education Summa Cum Laude from Texas Tech University. She later received her Master’s degree in Administration from Lamar University.
Ashley dedicated 17 years of her life to education, serving as both an elementary school teacher and an Assistant Principal, where she touched the lives of countless children and adults. After her years in education, she transitioned into the insurance industry, a career change that allowed her to continue her lifelong passion for helping others.
Ashley loved teaching yoga. After earning her yoga instructor certification, she began teaching yoga classes on Sundays. This was her Sabbath. Helping others relax and prioritize their well-being brought her deep fulfillment. Over the past year, she had the joy of teaching more frequently, sometimes three to four times a week. Her vibrant energy and unique style shone through, while teaching yoga sessions with mimosas in hand, kangaroos hopping around, or lemurs playfully stealing sweat towels during downward dog poses. Only BadAsh Yoga could pull that off with equal measures of love and laughter!
Ashley was also an accomplished softball player. She started playing catcher at the age of 10 in the USSSA Softball League. In high school, she played center field for the Monterey High School Plainsmen. She competed in tournaments across Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, and even traveled to Louisville, Kentucky, for the USSSA World Tournament, where her team placed 6th out of 65. It was there that she met Dottie Hinson, another fiery redheaded ballplayer. Many witnessed Ashley’s powerful hits driving in winning runs and her fierce determination protecting home plate like a lioness – all while inspiring others and building lifelong friendships.
Ashley WAS NOT a quitter. She instilled this lesson in her students, teachers, family, and friends. Quitting was never an option. She did not lose her battle – she won her crown in heaven, where her mother had the honor of placing it on her head.
The family wishes that you focus on the Miricle of Christmas and cherish the presence of your family this Christmas Season.
Please join us in celebrating and remembering our one and only BadAsh. Come as you are, yoga pants are optional.
In lieu of flowers please consider a gift to: St. Jude Children’s Hospital. There is a specific area to donate for melanoma research.
https://www.stjude.org/give/cancer-donations/melanoma.html#:~:text=How%20to%20donate%20to%20melanoma,through%20your%20will%20or%20bequest.
Or the charity of your choice.
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