West Windsor, VT - Ashley W Gravelle, 43, died Sunday March 9th at her home in Brownsville, VT. Ashley used her "power of positive" to fight cancer with courage, dignity and laughter until she decided it was time to soar.
Born on December 14th, 1970, in Manhasset, NY., Ashley grew up in Long Island and later in Pittsburgh, PA. before attending Skidmore College and graduating from CU Boulder. To this day, Ashley touched the hearts of, and was a true friend to, the myriad wonderful people from college with whom she surrounded herself.
After college Ashley returned to her treasured family home in Cavendish, VT where she opened Rivers Roost Bagel Company, then moved on to become Director of Education at Springbrook Farm. At Springbrook, Ashley was able to share her love of outdoor adventure and fulfill her aspirations of working with children. In 2003, Ashley co-founded Keepers Restaurant in Reading, VT., and made it into a cherished community landing spot. The energy and unconditionally welcoming atmosphere one felt upon entering Keeper's was the same feeling one had when a part of Ashley's world. Ashley's work at The Edge Fitness Center at Mt. Ascutney Resort exemplified her passion of fitness, healthy living and bringing people together into an active environment.
Ashley is survived by her husband Jason and children Sadie Morgan and Chase Egan of Brownsville; her mother Ali of Reading and father Sterling of Greensboro, NC; a sister Kelly Lilly of Stowe and brother Sterling Jr. of Northfield, VT as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and fans throughout the world.
A celebration of her life will be held Saturday, March 15, at 1:00 pm at the Old South Church in Windsor, VT. A reception will immediately follow at the Harvest Inn at Mt Ascutney Resort.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Albert Bridge Elementary School, SCIP Program, PO Box 88 Brownsville, VT 05037.