Ashley Elizabeth Manning, 43, of Fairfield, IA passed away on Monday, June 10, 2024, at the Jefferson County Health Care Center. As were her wishes, cremation has taken place with a private burial to be held in the Fell Cemetery near Libertyville. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Ashley’s honor be directed to the family to be used for the children’s education fund. Memorials may be mailed c/o Cranston Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 189, Fairfield, IA 52556. Friends may leave online condolences and words of comfort at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.
Ashley Elizabeth Manning was born on July 11, 1980, to Steve and Jeanne Smith Meyers. She attended school and graduated with Fairfield High School’s class of 1998. Her pursuit of education led her to the University of Iowa, where she earned a degree from the Tippie College of Business. She began her career as a temporary employee at Gamrath-Doyle Insurance which quickly turned into a fulltime position in the insurance industry. Ashley’s talent and commitment to her work were matched only by her joy in building relationships, which was how she met her beloved husband, Chad. After a push from a few friends and a work email exchange sparked a connection, their journey in marriage began on August 26, 2006, at the Fairfield Golf and Country Club, a day cherished by friends and family Ashley’s passion for life was evident in everything she did. She had a lifelong affinity for dance, music, and the performing arts, fostering a household where creativity was celebrated. Not only could she claim an impressive 8 lb. bass as a trophy, but she could also tell tales of rescue pets that she welcomed into her home. She truly had a servant’s heart, and she often went out of her way to extend a helping hand to anyone in need.
Throughout her life, Ashley actively contributed to the well-being of Fairfield, serving on the Greater Jefferson County Foundation and taking on an active role in the Fairfield PTO. However, her greatest passion was being the #1 fan for her children, Olivia and Carter, never missing a moment to support their varied interests and activities.
Ashley’s love and devotion to her family was evident in every breath she took. She is survived by her devoted husband, Chad; her two children, Olivia and Carter; her loving parents, Steve and Jeanne Meyers, her sister Danielle Freire and her husband Brian, and her treasured aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.
Ashley Elizabeth Manning leaves behind a legacy of quiet strength, warmth, and perpetual care. Her memory will be forever celebrated as an example of a life well-lived.
