Chiyoko Kobayashi Ashley

Chiyoko Kobayashi Ashley, long time resident of Buffalo, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family on July 15th,2020.

Chiyoko is lovingly remembered by her husband of 53 years, Tommy Ashley; her children Elizabeth Ashley-Vasquez (Miguel) and Thomas Ashley (Candice); her grandchildren Austin Ashley (Amanda Wilson), Roman Vasquez, Valerie Vasquez, and Lizzy Vasquez; her sister Sachiko Hoshi (Takayoshi); her brother Hideaki Kobayashi; her nephews Ryuichi & Takashi Hoshi; her niece Arisa Ueda (Masa); and a host of other family members and friends.

Chiyoko was born in Tokyo, Japan on March 9, 1948. She attended Aoba High School in Tokyo and received training from Doreme Dress Maker School after high school. As a young adult, she professed her faith through Catholic studies. She met and married Tommy while he was stationed at Zama Army Hospital in Japan. With great curiosity and courage, she immigrated to this country in 1970. She took great pleasure in assimilating into American life, while maintaining her Japanese culture.

Chiyoko was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and sister. She grew up in the city of Tokyo, but her gentle soul appreciated the quiet of the countryside. She had a green thumb and could make anything grow. She enjoyed gardening and sitting in her swing watching the hummingbirds. She loved being Baba to her grandchildren and cherished her time with them. Her influence will continue in our hearts and lives. She will be deeply missed by her family and all that loved her.

A family memorial service was held observing traditional customs of her homeland and of her adopted country.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to MD Anderson Cancer Research (gifts.mdanderson.org) or your local food bank.