April 23, 1940 – March 7, 2026
Grace “Marie” Ashley, age 85, of Cowan, Tennessee, passed away
peacefully on March 7, 2026, at NHC of Tullahoma.
She was born on April 23, 1940, in Flintville, Tennessee, to the late Clifton
B. Rigsby and Rosa Ella (Fitch) Rigsby. Marie spent much of her life
working in sales, but she was most known for her caring heart and her
dedication to taking care of others. She also worked for Dr. Couser in
Cowan, where she built many lasting friendships.
Marie was full of life and had a wonderful sense of humor. She loved being
around people and was known for bringing gospel singers together every
Saturday at Hardee’s, where fellowship and music were always enjoyed.
She also loved attending gospel singings and would go to every one she
could find. She treasured time with her family and especially enjoyed riding
around town, often taking scenic drives. In her quiet moments, Marie
enjoyed going to the library, reading gospel books, and spending time
reading her Bible. She also loved watching classic television shows. Above
all, she was a devoted and godly mother whose strong faith guided her
throughout her life.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved
husband, of 46 Years, Richard “Cotton” Ashley; brother, C.B. “Booty”
Rigsby, Jr.; three infant brothers; and nephews, Jimmy Rigsby and Ronnie
Alexander.
She is survived by her loving children, Andrea (Danny) Walton and Tish
(Mark) Perry; grandchildren, Clay Walton and Nicole Perry;
great-grandchildren, Ephram Walton and Haiden Brinkley; siblings, Betty
Alexander and Billy (Amanda) Rigsby; several nieces; and nephews; and
sisters-in-law, Gayle Rigsby and Patsy Rigsby.
Visitation will be held at Moore-Cortner Funeral Home on Thursday, March
12, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow at
1:00 p.m. in the chapel of Moore-Cortner Funeral Home. Interment will
immediately follow at Cowan Montgomery Cemetery.
