Her co-teacher of five years, Monique Alvarez, reflected through tears, “Ashley was the heartbeat of our classroom. She saw each child as an individual miracle. She brought light and gentleness to every moment—even the tough ones. She had a gift, and she used it every single day.”

Children gravitated to Ashley for her calm presence and her open-door policy. Many of her students, even after graduating to higher grades, continued to visit her classroom just to say hello or get a warm hug.

“She never forgot a name or a birthday,” said school administrator James Keller. “She remembered her students years later and often asked how they were doing. Her memory was long, and her heart even longer.”

Rooted in Community, Loved by All

Born and raised in Roanoke, Ashley was a proud graduate of Patrick Henry High School and earned her degree in Early Childhood Development from Hollins University. Beyond her role as an educator, she was a vibrant member of the community—leading children’s storytime at the Roanoke Public Library, volunteering with the local food bank, and organizing community clean-up days. Her dedication to service extended beyond the classroom and reflected her deep belief in contributing to the greater good.

“She had this beautiful way of making everyone feel seen,” said longtime friend and fellow volunteer Jenna May. “Whether she was in front of a classroom or handing out food boxes, she brought love to everything she did.”

Ashley also participated in educational panels and workshops, mentoring new teachers and speaking passionately about the importance of early education access for all children, regardless of background. Her advocacy work included collaboration with regional nonprofit groups focused on literacy and equitable learning environments.

A Profound Loss Felt by Many

The news of Ashley’s passing spread rapidly on Sunday evening, May 18, after North Valley Montessori School issued a somber statement confirming her death. The cause, reported as sudden and unexpected, has not been publicly disclosed at the family’s request.

NVMS immediately activated its crisis response plan, bringing in grief counselors and holding classroom meetings to help students process the loss. An on-campus memorial wall was quickly erected, covered in colorful paper hearts, hand-drawn messages from students, and photographs capturing Ashley’s vibrant classroom moments.

“We are devastated,” the school’s director, Meredith Sloan, said in a press conference Monday morning. “Ashley Graybill was not just a teacher—she was family. Her contributions to this school, her love for her students, and the joy she brought to our halls will never be forgotten.”

Remembered by Her Students and Families

The impact of Ashley’s death is perhaps felt most keenly by the families of her current and former students. Many shared tributes on social media, expressing gratitude for the care and guidance she provided their children.

“Ms. Graybill changed our lives,” wrote parent Marcus Taylor. “Our daughter started school with anxiety and fear, but Ashley met her with patience and warmth. She blossomed under Ashley’s care. I cannot express how much that meant to us.”

Another mother, Naomi Clark, posted a photograph of a birthday card her son had made for Ashley just weeks prior. “He cried when I told him,” she wrote. “He asked if she could still see his drawings from heaven. I told him yes.”

The sentiment echoed across Roanoke: that Ashley was more than an educator—she was a second parent, a quiet hero, a trusted friend.

Legacy and Memorialization

To honor her enduring impact, North Valley Montessori School has announced the establishment of the Ashley Graybill Memorial Fund for Early Learners, which will support student scholarships, classroom enrichment, and teacher training. Community members have already raised over $15,000 in the first 48 hours.

Additionally, the City of Roanoke will hold a Celebration of Life at Elmwood Park on Sunday, May 25, featuring music, children’s performances, and speeches from those who knew Ashley best. A permanent bench and tree will be installed near the park’s garden area, with a plaque reading: “In memory of Ashley Graybill — who taught us all to grow.”

A Final Farewell

Ashley Graybill’s funeral will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Trinity United Methodist Church in Roanoke, where she had been a lifelong member and Sunday School teacher. The service is expected to draw a large crowd, and arrangements are being made for overflow seating and a livestream for distant friends and family.

She is survived by her parents, Gerald and Renee Graybill; her younger brother, Thomas Graybill; and her fiancé, Daniel Reed, with whom she was planning a wedding next spring.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Ashley Graybill Memorial Fund.

In Her Own Words

In a teacher spotlight published last year on the school’s website, Ashley was asked what brought her the most joy about teaching. Her answer read:

“It’s the little moments. The first time a child writes their name, ties their shoes, says ‘I did it!’—that’s the magic. Helping children believe in themselves is the most important thing I’ll ever do. And I’ll keep doing it, as long as I can.”

Now, her words serve as a testament to a life devoted to light and learning—one that will continue to shine in the memories of those she touched.

Funeral Service Information:

• Date: Saturday, May 24, 2025
• Time: 11:00 a.m.
• Location: Trinity United Methodist Church, Roanoke, VA
• Livestream: TrinityUMC-Roanoke.org/memorial

Memorial Contributions:

• Donations to: Ashley Graybill Memorial Fund for Early Learners
• Mail to: NVMS, 1424 Elmwood Ave, Roanoke, VA 24014
• Online: [To be published by the school]

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