Elizabeth M. Ashton

Elizabeth M. (Schroeder) Ashton, 44, passed away peacefully at home in the arms of her husband on Wednesday, July 27, 2011, following a long struggle with cancer.

Beth brought joy and love to everything she did and everyone she met. Known for her beautiful voice and thoughtful songwriting, she loved singing and playing music in local folk and bluegrass venues with her husband Steve.

She was born on September 21, 1966 in Sharon, CT, the daughter of the late Carl A. and Betty (Smith) Schroeder.

Beth grew up in Pine Plains, New York. She attended Dutchess Community College, SUNY Cobleskill and SUNY ESF, where she attained a degree in Landscape Architecture. For eight years after completing college, she was the head gardener of the perennial gardens at the Cary Institute. While at IES, she took pride in her beautiful display gardens and developing a wonderful corps of volunteers. Beth lectured on gardening and perennials throughout the Hudson Valley and enjoyed judging Horticulture at the Dutchess County Fair every year. More recently, Beth had been part owner of a local antiques business before becoming Deputy Town Clerk in the Town of Stanford.

Beth was a longtime member of the Stanford Conservation Advisory Commission, serving for more than 15 years. Following her father's passion, she joined the Stanford Fire Company and Rescue Squad, loved interior firefighting and boasted being the first female line officer in the company.

Beth is survived by her husband Steve, and their three long haired dachshunds, Baxter, Casey and Lily, and their two cats, Willow and Maya; a brother, Carl Schroeder and his wife Kimberly, and their two sons; a father-in-law, James Ashton and his wife Helen; and brothers-in-law and a sister-in-law and their families, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Beth will be missed by many who loved her. She was a very loving, non-judgmental, strong woman who loved a simple life at home with her family and her garden. Her music will be missed by many. In her words:

Speak to me of good times
I don't want to hear you crying so,
For a friend may walk away now,
You are Glorybound, You are Glorybound.

Calling hours are Friday, July 29, 2011, from 4 to 7 pm, and on Saturday, July 30, 2011 from 9 to 11 am at the Peck and Peck Funeral Home, 7749 S. Main St., Pine Plains.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 30, 2011 at 11 am at the funeral home, with Rev. Douglas Fischer officiating.

Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Memorial donations are requested to the Stanford Fire Company, PO Box 437, Stanfordville, NY 12581, or the Hudson Valley Folk Guild, PO Box F, Poughkeepsie, NY 12602.

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