Mrs. Inez Ashley

One Glad morning, when this life is over, I will fly away. Mrs. Inez Ashley, affectionately known as "Mama Nez ", made her Heavenly transition on September 12th, 2024. Born to proud parents Nathaniel Johnson Sr. and Sarah Johnson on August 1st, 1942, in Bolton, Mississippi. Inez was the fifth child of fifteen born to this union. Her parents instilled Christian values, strong work ethics and the importance of education at an early age. She was a woman of great faith who leaned and depended on God for all things in her life. She remained steadfast and her faith was unwavering. She was preceded in death by her parents, Nathaniel Sr. and Sarah Johnson; beloved husband, Carl D, Ashley Sr.; two sisters, Susan Mason and Luretha Logan: four brothers, infant Dennis Johnson, Nathaniel Johnson Jr., James Johnson, Milton Johnson; and lastly, her precious baby girl Carla D. Ashley-Reed. 

EARLY LIFE 

Inez Ashley received her early Christian foundation at home and her spiritual journey with God began at Rose Hill MB Church in Bolton, Mississippi. She often told the story of how she, in her early youth, accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior one Tuesday evening. On numerous occasions she shared her story of first experiencing the presence of the Holy Spirit while seeking God on her knees in prayer service; a pivotal moment in her life that forever changed her. She was baptized under the leadership of the late Pastor L.H. Newsome. Inez became active in the church by singing in the choir and participating in youth ministries. Her Christian faith was demonstrated through her loving spirit, unwavering kindness, remarkable strength, and tenacious selfless service to family, friends and strangers alike. She was a "people person" and was natural at building positive relationships with others, 

She attended Rose Hill Elementary School, Mount Zion Junior High and Sumner Hill High School of Bolton, Mississippi. Inez demonstrated remarkable ambition and consistently excelled academically and in fine arts, earning the admiration of both her peers and teachers. Her leadership and unique gifts paved her path for opportunities to participate in school plays, singing and oratorical events. Through the course of her academic career, she was blessed to encounter three inspiring mentors: Mrs. Louis Spicey, Mrs. Annie Laura Thompson, and Mrs. Ruth Turner Robinson. Each played a monumental role in nurturing her love for the arts. Inez excelled in school and always had a song in her spirit that she would later take to greater heights. 

NEW BEGININGS 

Inez, desiring a fresh start and seeking new opportunities, took a leap of faith and relocated to Chicago, IL during the mid-1960s. She shared her story of how she trusted God to guide her path. Soon after arriving, she joined Helping Hand M.B. Church under the Spiritual leadership of the late Joseph B. Kelly. She became a devoted member of the choir and drama ministry. It was in Chicago where she met the Love of her life, Carl Dean Ashley Sr. They were married in 1965 and together they were blessed to love and nurture four children: Anthony T. Johnson, Felicia K. McGrady, Carla D, Ashley-Reed and Carl D, Ashley Jr. In their later years the family welcomed another son Cyle Ashley, Their marriage was built on love, commitment and most importantly faith in God. With the encouragement of her husband, Inez decided to continue her education by attending a local community college. She was a loving and devoted wife, and being a mother was one of her greatest joys. Together, they created a home filled with love, laughter, guidance and firm discipline. She did not believe in "sparing the rod and spoiling the child", teaching accountability while imparting life lessons in love. She poured into her children, instilling a foundation of faith and Christian values. Throughout her life, she shared her love and counsel, nurturing numerous children whom she regarded as her own sons and daughters. Mother Nez was truly a pillar in her family and community. 

LOVE & LEGACY Growing up in the era of Jim Crow South, Inez was known for her no-nonsense attitude, strength, courage, and heart of gold for her family and community. She was a leader, a Community Advocate and a Civil Rights Activist. Inez and her husband actively participated in numerous early rallies and events advocating for social justice. To effect change in her community, she worked with organizations to increase voters registration. She also worked for the board of elections as an election judge for decades. Inez was an active member of the Women of Steele Organization under the leadership of former Cook County Commissioner Mrs. Bobbie Steele. She worked at Community Linkage for several years. For fifteen years, she devoted her passion for working with children to the Chicago Park District in the Special Education department. Her leadership, loving demeanor, and bubbly personality earned her the title of "grandma" to many children Inez was known for mentoring young women in her neighborhood and church as well as providing daycare for their children. 

Inez had a passion for the arts and excelled in performing arts, modeling, and singing. She had a natural talent and was blessed to fulfill her childhood dreams. During the eighties, she traveled abroad to Europe with the "Renee Productions Unlimited" cast of 21 and performed for the Royal Air force, in "How Can We Sing God's Praises in A Strange Land" and "There is a Balm in Gilead" at Liberty Baptist Church Chicago, IL and other schools and churches throughout the Chicagoland area. Inez was a cast member for "The Chicago Passion Play" Written and Directed by the Late Willa Saunders Jones. She performed at the Chicago Civic Opera House, working alongside Wanda Coley, the Barret Sisters and many others. She also was a fashion model for the "Radio Broadcasters Banquet and Fashion Shows" by Mr. Jimmy Dunlap. She received the "Extraordinary Vocal Talent" Award from "Renee Productions Unlimited" cast of 21 at Liberty Baptist Church in Chicago, IL. 

Mother Inez Ashley continued her spiritual growth and her unwavering devotion to God. She joined her daughter Carla in worship and membership at United Baptist Church (UBC) Chicago, IL. under the leadership of Pastor Wilson Daniels, more than thirty years ago. She became an active member of UBC Choir and Drama/Theatre Ministry. She was known for her soulful tenor voice and was often requested to sing solo at special events including funerals, plays and banquets. She will be remembered for her soulful arrangement of "I Find no Fault in Him (Jesus)" in the Passion of Christ Play and her participation in Black History plays. The effects of Covid Pandemic couldn't quench her zeal for continued Knowledge of God. She remained dedicated and committed to serving God through ministry while also being a beacon of light by offering prayers and providing counsel, guidance and support to her family, spiritual family, friends, and strangers alike. 

Mother Inez Ashley leaves behind a Legacy of Enduring Love, Great Faith, and Unwavering Devotion to God. She leaves to cherish her memories her loving children: Anthony Johnson, Felicia McGrady, Carl Ashley Jr. and Cyle Ashley; three sisters, Sarah Buggs, Dorothy Finnie, and Katherine Beck; six brothers, Cornelius Johnson, Lamar Johnson, Dwight Johnson (Anne), Drexell Johnson (Debra), Rickey Johnson (Vicky), Donald Johnson (Valery); Five granddaughters, Jocelyn Johnson, Jasmine Mack-McGrady, Jalise McGrady, Cyza Ashley and Cylee Ashley; Six grandsons, Anthony M. Johnson, Devario Johnson, Demetrius Johnson, Justin McGrady, Deon Sharp-Ashley and Carl Ashley Il; Three great granddaughters; Nine great grandsons. "Mama Nez" also leaves behind numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, church family and many beloved friends 

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