William "Alfred" Ashburn

DYER CHAPEL - William Alfred Ashburn passed away on August 28, 2026, at Cookeville Regional Medical Center in Cookeville at the age of 86. He was born on January 1, 1940, and lived a life marked by devotion to his family, his faith, his church, and the simple joys that brought meaning to his days.

Alfred attended Nash Chapel School for grammar school and was a member of the last graduating class from Baxter Seminary, now Upperman High School. He worked as a printer and typesetter, and he also counted it as one of life’s blessings that he had the opportunity to be a full-time dad for a period of time. That role reflected the deep care he gave to his family throughout his life.

Faith and music were central parts of Alfred's life. He was a 40-year member and deacon of Ozion Free Will Baptist Church and was currently a member of United Free Will Baptist in Cookeville. Over the course of 55 years, he served as a song leader, sharing both his faith and his love of music with those around him. He enjoyed playing the guitar and banjo, and most recently was a regular at local nursing homes, where he would encourage and uplift the residents by performing and sharing his talents. His appreciation for music was woven into the life he built and the memories he leaves behind.

Alfred also found happiness in everyday work and the outdoors. He enjoyed gardening and took pride in mowing the yard, something he was still doing this past Friday. These steady routines spoke to his strong spirit, his work ethic, and the care he gave to his home and surroundings.

Above all, Alfred will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and soon-to-be great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Faye Ashburn, with whom he shared nearly 66 years of marriage. He also leaves behind two daughters, Kim Stults and her husband, Will, of Warner Robins, Georgia, and Vickie Herron and her husband, Daniel, of Baxter, Tennessee. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Dr.Parker (Lauren)Stults, Peyton Stults, Addison Stults, Noah Herron, and Nic Herron, as well as a great-granddaughter expected in February 2027; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. The love he gave to his family will remain with them always, and his presence will continue to be felt in the lives they share and the memories they hold dear.

He was preceded in death by his father, John Calvin Ashburn; his mother, Mary Dunn Ashburn; and his siblings, Melba (Howard) Alison, Albert (Lorene) Ashburn, Mildred (Jim) Gammill, Rosa Lee (Orby) Goff, Roosevelt (MaryLou) Ashburn, Clara Nell (Carlyn) Thomas, and Betty Sue Ashburn.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1 PM, Tuesday, September 1, 2026 from Dyer Chapel, 798 South Willow Avenue, Cookeville, Tennessee 38501 with Bro. Dow Allen and Bro. Ronnie Dunn officiating.

Interment will follow at Crest Lawn Cemetery with Parker, Peyton, and Addison Stults, Noah and Nic Herron, Milton Ashburn, Shaun Dodd and Greg Thomas serving as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends on Monday from 5-8 PM and again on Tuesday from 11 AM until the time of the service at the funeral home.

Alfred Ashburn’s life was one of faithfulness, music, hard work, and love. He will be deeply missed and warmly remembered by all who knew him.

Dyer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-7158 You may share your thoughts and memories at www.dyerfh.com.