Ashley Beard

Las Vegas

Oct. 2, 1988 — Feb. 19, 2015

Ashley Nicole Beard left us way too soon, as a result of rare, incurable brain tumors. She fought an extremely long and brave battle that most would not have been able to bear. Ashley remained positive throughout many surgeries, treatments, setbacks and constant pain. She was, and will remain, an inspiration to many, demonstrating her absolute faith and indomitable spirit.

She is survived by her son, Hayden Bakes, who resides in Las Vegas with his father, Gianni Bakes, stepmother Ashley Thompson, two sisters and baby brother; her parents, Megan Schroeder (Irish) and Tony Beard, along with their spouses Mike Schroeder and Kim Beard; her sisters, Zoe Carrier, Jackie Boliba; and her brother, Jag Beard. She is also survived by her grandparents, Mike and Christy Irish, Patty Wilson (Beard); and her loving aunts, uncles, cousins and many, many friends, who all faithfully followed her journey. Ashley’s lifelong friend, Roxanne Wheeler, was at her side as often as she could be.

Ashley was born in McMinnville, Ore., and was a resident of Vancouver, Wash., The Dalles, Ore., Astoria, Ore., Youngtown, Ariz., and Las Vegas, Nev.

Ashley attended Clatsop Community College, where she earned her associate degree (while enduring radiation and chemotherapy), and was a junior at Portland State University, where she continued to work online toward a degree in criminal justice until such time that she was no longer able.

A beautiful spirit; a loving mother; a cherished daughter, sister, granddaughter; and a beloved friend. In loving memory of Ashley’s fondness to pay it forward, we have established the Hayden Bakes Savings Account. Contributions may be made in person or mailed to: Columbia State Bank, 316 East Third St., The Dalles, OR 97058. For more information, contact Megan, Tony or Grandma Christy. 

A celebration of Ashley’s life will be held in The Dalles at a later date.