Dawn Elizabeth Ashley Zachary

Dawn Elizabeth Zachary, age 60, of Warrensville, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at Watauga Medical Center. She was born in Ashe County on Monday, January 13, 1964 to John Cicero "J.C." & Mary Jane Miller Ashley. She was preceded in death by her father, maternal grandparents, Joe C. and Dillie Davis Miller and paternal grandparents, Rev. R.C. and Ruby Baldwin Ashley.

A loving wife, daughter, devoted mother, and cherished grandmother, Dawn touched the lives of all who knew her with her kindness, warmth, and unwavering dedication to her community and family.

Dawn was an avid animal lover who found immense joy in horseback riding and caring for her beloved farm animals, especially her donkeys. She also had a deep passion for gardening, a love she discovered early in life from her "Granny Ashley." Her green thumb and nurturing spirit were evident in the vibrant gardens she cultivated over the years.

Dawn was a dedicated member of the Warrensville Volunteer Fire and Rescue for 28 years, serving her community with pride and commitment. Her passion for helping others also led her to work with Ashe Medics for 8 years and to teach EMS education at Ashe Campus of Wilkes Community College for 26 years. She was known for her compassion, expertise, and the many lives she touched through her teaching and service.

For 25 years, Dawn worked for Summit Support Services, where she assisted and loved her clients with the same dedication she showed to her family and friends. Her caring nature and gentle spirit made her a beloved figure in the lives of those she served.

Dawn also found great joy in cooking and baking, and she treasured family events and holidays, especially Christmas. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the delicious scents of her culinary creations. Family was at the center of her life, and she made every gathering a special occasion.

Dawn is survived by her beloved husband, Rick Zachary; her son, Rusty Zachary, and his wife, Lindsey; her mother and stepfather, Mary Jane and Doyle Brown, all of Warrensville; and her cherished grandson, Reed Zachary. She also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and many dear friends who will forever remember her gentle spirit and unwavering love.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at 1:00 pm at Ashelawn Memorial Chapel, officiated by Rev. Michael Kurtz. Following the service, Dawn will be laid to rest in Ashelawn Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 8:00 pm on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at Ashelawn Memorial Chapel.

Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to, Warrensville Volunteer Fire and Rescue, PO Box 207, Warrensville, NC 28693, continuing her legacy of generosity, community and compassion.