I am just finding out about Ashley's passing.  My friend for many years now, a caring, kind, funny, whimsical, God loving faithful gentlemen.  Heartbreaking to lose one of the good people, one of the helpers in this world.  I will miss our chats and laughs about life, God, people, family, work, the humor and sometimes great sadness of it all.  I'm glad to have known you my friend who was always in my corner reminding me of the good things, I thank the Lord he crossed our paths.  My condolences to you family and fiance'. 

I was fortunate enough to know two sides of Ashley....the person on the road, in his element, that was driven, thorough and unwavering when it came to safety and excellence. He operated at a very high level and expected no less from everyone around him. At heart he was a teacher of his craft and he unselfishly shared if you were willing to learn.
I also knew the Ashley that was a true gentleman, very kind, extremely generous and very spiritual. He was also a very educated man. If you ever had the opportunity to just get in a quiet place and talk with him one on one, you came away knowing the real Ashley Swann. He truly cared about others and you would be blown away at the knowledge this man had and the passion for living life. Even though he was born in the U.K., Ashley was so proud to be an American citizen. He made an impact on many lives and he will surely be missed but he is with his Savior now and I happen to know that was his ultimate goal.

I did not know Ashley except to speak to him in church. I always liked sitting near him because he had such a good voice and made me want to sing along. My condolences to Lynn, his friends and family who knew and loved him. God bless.

I helped him with many projects when his office was in the old Melrose Theatre Building. He was always a joy to be around. He was always very fair to work with. I think of him occasionally and will miss him always.

Goodbye for now Ashley. You were always so cool and respectful to us. Also thanks for the humor!

By some, Ashley will be remembered as a world class touring professional with his wicked British wit. He had a genuine love for people and bestowing nicknames on them.  More than 25 years ago he gave me the moniker of “Lola de Valente” and our friend Marie became “Kristi X”.  I cannot recall the last time he used my proper name, years for sure.  For those lucky to call him friend, he will be remembered for his honest, thoughtful, and caring nature.   He could lift your spirit, with not much more than a smile, a kind word, and a bit of sarcasm sometimes too.  He believed in me, gave me advice when I needed it most, and we laughed a LOT.  I’m not sure our friendship was equal; I was the lucky one.   Shortly after his mom passed, he came back from England with her tea set and said he was going to put it away for “safe keeping” and I asked, "What are you keeping it safe from? Use it in her honor, wouldn’t she want you to enjoy it?" He called me not long after to tell me he was using it regularly whilst remembering her.

Gaz, you loved, and you were loved, enjoy that cup of tea with your mum.

Love, Lola

I haven't seen Ashley in several years and thought I knew him pretty well until I read his obituary. My ex wife and I introduced him to a former wife in the 80's and I worked with him during the Whitelace days and on many other projects. Sad to hear of his passing but I have many happy memories to carry forward.

So sorry to hear about my dear friend Ashley. I will miss him and his heart for others. His  friendship has and will always be priceless to me.