She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Central Michigan University and taught school for eight years. She has been a REALTOR since 1983.

Ashley spent numerous years in her home raising her family of six children and now is a grandmother of four. While raising her children, she was involved with various volunteer organizations.

She is currently serving on the board of directors for the following organizations: the Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, the Midland Community Cancer Services, the Music Society, the Voluntary Action Center, the Literary Council of Midland County and the Center for Independent Living. She served as Chairman of the 1996 Spring Day of Caring sponsored by the United Way and the Voluntary Action Center. She also takes part in the Lunch Box Learner Program at Longview School.

She has been a winner of the Midland Daily News People's Choice Award since 1995. She is a past president of Midland Area Homes. Ashley holds a trustee position at Memorial Presbyterian Church and is also a member of Zonta and the Midland Morning Rotary.