Kevin Wayne Ashford

Kevin Wayne Ashford passed away peacefully on February 9, 2025, at his residence in Globe, Arizona. He was born on June 20, 1970, to Marilyn (Thraen/Ashford) Brewer and Robert Ashford in Miami, Arizona.

Kevin attended Miami Schools and was a National Honor Society graduate of Miami High School, class of 1988. In 1993 he received his BA in Criminal Justice from Arizona State University. Kevin was an amazing person and a true believer in God. He had an unwavering sense of Faith, Trust, and confidence in God knowing He was leading him in his journey. He had such a love for life! He was an incredibly intelligent, compassionate, loving and caring man who approached life with thoughtfulness and kindness for everyone he encountered. He had a young-at-heart attitude and knack for making people laugh, whether it was at him or with him. He was often dubbed the “mayor” for his outgoing and witty personality, no one was a stranger. An early riser, Kevin joyfully and energetically looked forward to every new day with gratitude in his heart.

In 1995 Kevin met the love of his life, Carol. Kevin was not shy about proclaiming his love and was always looking for ways to express his love. No task for his family was ever a chore, he willingly and happily met every need, big or small. Kevin happily became “Pops” to Eddie, Marcos, AdamRay and Deziree. He took immense pride in his role and together they had an amazing family, viewing challenges as opportunities to strengthen their bond. “Pops” was firm yet supportive and steady with advice. Kevin later embraced the title of “Papa,” finding great joy in his 13 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. As an active “Papa” he coached youth basketball and baseball. Kevin was always encouraging, cheering, and praising their efforts. “Papa” was their biggest fan! You could always find Kevin seated in the stands, or at the baseball fields, visiting with locals and watching his kids or grandkids participating. His enthusiasm for coaching and guiding young athletes was a testament to his belief in the importance of teamwork and perseverance.

Kevin absolutely loved spending time with all his family including his wife, kids, grandkids, mother, sisters, brothers, nephews, nieces, and cousins. Holidays with and phone calls from family were very special to him. To Kevin family was family and he wouldn’t tolerate any “half- this” or “step-that”.

Kevin was passionate about sports and was a devoted fan of the Arizona teams: ASU Sun Devils, Diamondbacks, Suns and Cardinals. He not only enjoyed watching the events, he enjoyed the camaraderie with his brothers and friends. Kevin was always up for any game and attending live sports, being a true “Bud” man drinking beer and having laughs. He took pleasure in the simple things in life such as music playing, an evening walk, great conversation, and funny videos on his phone. Kevin’s favorite place to be was outdoors. He especially loved being in the pines and enjoying the beauty of Greer, Arizona. Kevin’s knowledge of hunting, fishing, and camping was instilled and made a part of his children’s and grandchildren’s lives. The memories of those special outings will be forever cherished.

Kevin dedicated his career to Hensley Beverage where he served as Sales Team Leader. He loved his work and cherished the relationships he built with both colleagues and clients. Known for his honesty, integrity and strong values, Kevin was well liked by all who knew him. His positive energy, uplifting spirit, and infectious sense of humor brought joy to everyone around him.

Kevin’s legacy of being such an incredible person, helpful to anyone, his kindness, and laughter will live on in our hearts. He was a definite Angel amongst us! Kevin will be missed tremendously but we know he is rejoicing with God in Heaven. We find comfort in knowing Kevin is with our Savior and in the company of those that have passed who love him as much as we do. God heard our prayers, healed him and made him whole.

Kevin is survived by his wife, Carol; children, Marcos (Charlene), AdamRay (Brittney), Deziree, and Kim Verdugo; grandchildren, Hilary (Ricardo) Trevizo; Nathaniel (Shireen) Cruz; Jayde and Elyce Verdugo; Andre (Jazlyn), Aaliyah, Amani, and Alexander Hayes; Damen, Miela and Leila Verdugo; Andrew Villalobos; and Rayven Verdugo; great grandchildren, RJ, Gianna and Gabriella Trevizo; his mother, Marilyn Brewer (Michael Martin); his mom, JoAnn Ashford; his sisters, Elea (Barry) Lutz; Mikey Flores; Suzanne (Eddie) Cordova, and Amber (Jerry) Yniguez; brothers, Chris Couture, Brian Campbell, and Manuel, Mike (Sylvia), Steve (Connie), Andy, and Rocky (Shawna) Gonzales; nephews, Michael and Mathew Lutz; cousin Trena (Allan Walpole) Grantham, and dear friend Kris (Estelle) Belarde. Kevin also leaves so many others including special aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins, friends, and neighbors. He will be missed immensely by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Kevin is preceded in death by his son, Eddie Verdugo, father, Robert S. Ashford, sister, Debby Valtierra, Grandma, Virginia (Trethewey) Thraen, and Nanny, Ruby (Pirtle) Ashford.

Services for Kevin will be held March 1, 2025, at Holy Angels Catholic Church, 201 South Broad Street, Globe, Az 85501. Rosary is at 9:30 a.m. and Mass is at 10:00 a.m. Interment will be at Globe Cemetery, 328 West Hackney Avenue, Globe, Arizona. Luncheon immediately following interment at Our Lady’s Center, 844 Sullivan Street, Miami Arizona. All are welcome.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to Copper Cities Youth Sports, P.O. Box 908, Globe, AZ 85502.

Assisting the family; Lamont Mortuary of Globe located at 328 S. Hill St., Globe, AZ. (928) 425-5491