Leroy Ashford

Leroy Ashford

1936 - 2026

Leroy Ashford, age 89, peacefully departed this earthly life on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at his home, with his loving daughter, HaShawn Ashford, by his bedside. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

Leroy Ashford was born on May 26, 1936, in Brownview, Louisiana, to the late David Ashford and Lula Ashford. He was raised in New Roads, Louisiana, where he developed the strong values of faith, hard work, and perseverance that guided him throughout his life.

He completed his education at New Roads High School, graduating in May 1956, at the age of 20, Leroy proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving honorably from June 1956 to February 1960, including deployment during the Vietnam War era to Saudi Arabia. Following his honorable discharge, Leroy returned home and began a long and dedicated career with the New Orleans School Board, where he worked faithfully from 1971 until his retirement in 1998.

In 1974, Leroy began working with New Breed Taxi Cab Service, a profession he would continue for over four decades, serving the city of New Orleans from 1974 until 2019. Through his work, he formed countless lifelong friendships and connections throughout the community. His strong work ethic and determination eventually allowed him to achieve the milestone of owning his own cab number. In 1975, Leroy married his beautiful wife, Sharon Lee Dyer-Ashford, the woman who had long captured his heart. Their enduring love and devotion led to a beautiful union blessed with four children: Kenyatta Ashford (Tomeka), Thaise Ashford, Devaunta Ashford, and HaShawn Ashford (Corey). Together, they built a legacy rooted in love, faith, and family.

Leroy accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized on March 21, 1982, by Reverend Robert C. Blakes, Sr. at New Hope Baptist Church. He remained a devoted and active member under the leadership of the late Pastor John C. Raphael Jr. and Pastor Jamaal Weathersby. His dedication to serving Christ was unwavering. Leroy found great joy in reading his Bible, mentoring youth within the ministry, and teaching young people how to play chess lessons that extended far beyond the board. A man of remarkable determination and resilience, Leroy rebuilt his home at 2617–2619 Eagle Street with his own hands following Hurricane Katrina, completing the renovations himself as a testament to his strength, independence, and perseverance.

Leroy was also known for his impeccable sense of style. Always well-dressed, even at home, he carried himself with elegance and confidence. Whether running everyday errands or attending formal events, his refined fashion sense left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David Ashford and Lula Ashford; and his siblings, Enell Ashford, Nelson Spooner, Alfred Ashford, Otis Ashford, Augustine Cain, Lawrence Ashford, and Herbert Ashford.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories his wife, Sharon L. Ashford; his four children, Kenyatta Ashford (Tomeka), Thaise Ashford, Devaunta Ashford, and HaShawn Ashford (Corey); four siblings, Almena Spooner, Claiborne Ashford, Vernon Ashford, and Rev. Helen Haynes; seven grandchildren, Ja’Lyn Franklin, Amairi’ Ash[1]ford, Nkenge Ashford, Knea Ashford, Dylan Ashford, Hendrix Juluke, and Harlem Juluke; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Leroy Ashford’s life was defined by faith, service, resilience, and unwavering love for his family and community. His legacy of strength, wisdom, dignity, and devotion will live on in all who were blessed to know and love him.

The Celebration of Life Service was held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at New Hope Baptist Church, 1807 Reverend John Raphael Jr. Way, New Orleans, LA.  Interment Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, Slidell, LA.  Final Arrangements entrusted to Patrick H. Sanders Funeral Home & Funeral Directors, LLC.  605 Main Street, Laplace, LA 70068.  985-.59-1919.  “Providing Care & Comfort is Our Highest Mission.”