The family sadly announces the death of Dorothy Drudge Ashburn on Thursday, March 9, 2023. 

Dorothy was predeceased by her parents Arthur and Lura Drudge.  She is survived by her beloved husband of 59 years, John R. Ashburn, Jr.; her loving son, J. Randolph Ashburn, III, and his wife, Terry of Portsmouth, Virginia;  her brother, Joseph A. Drudge, and his wife, Gail of Atlanta Georgia; her sister-in-law, Diana Pitts, and her husband Jack Pitts of Hartfield, Virginia; and four nephews.

Dorothy was an active member of the First Christian Church of Hampton for over 50 years.  There she served as a deacon, an elder, and a trustee.  She also taught Sunday School for both young people and senior adults, as well as chairing numerous committees.

Dorothy graduated from William and Mary College earning a Bachelor’s Degree and a Collegiate Professional Certificate allowing her to teach elementary grades 3 through 7 and French at the secondary level.

Dorothy was employed by the Newport News Public Schools for 32 years. In 1995 she was honored to be selected as Teacher of the Year, representing the teaching staff of the City of Newport News.

The family will receive friends on Friday, March 17, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home, with the funeral service following at 2:00 p.m.  The internment will be held at Peninsula Memorial Park. Richard Garrett, Lay Minister, officiating.