Louise Taylor Ashby

Louise Taylor Ashby, age 88, of Chesapeake, Virginia, was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on October 15, 2025. A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, First Lady, teacher, aunt, cousin, and friend, Louise lived a life of grace, faith, and unwavering love.

Born in Nansemond County, Suffolk, Virginia on July 29, 1937.  Louise was the seventh of eight children to Rosa A. and Joseph P. Taylor. She attended elementary and high school in Nansemond County, Suffolk, Virginia. She graduated from the highly esteemed  Norfolk State University in 1962 with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, and dedicated 37 years to shaping young minds in the Norfolk Public School System. Her intelligence, elegance, and God-fearing spirit made her a pillar in both education and ministry.

Louise was previously married to the late Rev. John L. Ashby, and together they had two children whom she dearly loved and adored: Gerald B. Ashby and Megan T. Ashby. Her devotion to family was matched by her commitment to community. She served as the First Lady of First Baptist West Munden for numerous years.  In addition, the First Lady was a life member of the International Association of Ministers’ Wives and Ministers’ Widows Incorporated, , and the Virginia State Association of Ministers’ Wives and Ministers’ Widows. In 1989–1990, she was honored as Minister’s Wife of the Year by the Tidewater chapter.

Her civic engagement included service on the Chesapeake Community Services Board and membership in organizations such as the National Education Association, the American Federation of Teachers, the Virginia Education Association, and the Chesapeake Branch of the NAACP.

After retirement, Louise embraced her role as a devoted grandmother to Jalyn Champion, and later, a joyful great-grandmother to Khelani Allen.  One of the highlights of Louise’s life was being able to experience her granddaughter becoming a loving mother to her daughter and graduating from Nursing school as an RN. Louise took great joy in experiencing the success of her children and grandchildren.

A faithful member of Bethany Baptist Church, Louise served on the Hospitality Committee and the Deaconess Board. She was known for her signature butterfly worn on her right shoulder—a symbol of transformation, beauty, and grace.

Louise was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings: Thelma T. Norfleet, Ora Lightbourne, Catherine Taylor, Irene T. Williams, Verlene Saunders, Frances Baird, and Joseph L. Taylor.

She leaves to cherish her memory: her son, Gerald B. Ashby (Angie) of Virginia Beach; her daughter, Megan T. Ashby of Chesapeake; her granddaughter, Jalyn Champion; her great-granddaughter, Khelani Allen; and a host of beloved family and friends.

Louise’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the wisdom she shared, and the love she gave so freely. Her presence was a blessing, and her memory will be a guiding light.

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