William Kirk Ashe, age 61, passed away on Wednesday, October 22, 2025.  Kirk was born on January 20, 1964, in Morrilton, Arkansas, to Floy and Ellis Ashe. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and a true hero who served his country with honor.

Kirk proudly served in the United States Army and was a veteran of both Operation Desert Storm and Operation Enduring Iraqi Freedom. He also participated in the rescue mission following Hurricane Katrina and served in the Honor Guard for his fallen brothers in arms.  Throughout his military career, Kirk was stationed at Fort Benning, Fort Stewart, and Fort Hood. He was especially proud to have "Stood the Gap" in Fulda, Germany, serving during the historic fall of the Berlin Wall.  During his 23 years of service, Kirk earned multiple medals and campaign ribbons. His bravery and dedication were recognized with a Purple Heart—a lasting testament to his courage and sacrifice for his country.

He recently retired from the Department of Veterans Affairs-Personnel Security Adjudication Center on the Fort Roots Campus in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

Kirk was known for his dependability, enormous heart, and willingness to help anyone in need. Those who knew him will remember his steady presence, selflessness, and the way he made everyone feel cared for.  He will be remembered for his loyalty, kindness, humor, and his unwavering pride in both his family and his country. His legacy of love, strength, faith, and service will live on through all who knew and loved him.

Beyond his service, Kirk was a man who loved deeply. He was a devoted family man who found his greatest joy in being "Papaw" to his two grandchildren, whom he loved more than anything.  He had a lifelong passion for hunting, fishing, and a deep love for America. He truly enjoyed traveling, attending concerts, going on cruises, and cheering at sporting events with his much beloved wife, Caroline.

Kirk was preceded in death by his sister, Jenny Ashe, and his father, Ellis Ashe.  He is survived by his wife of eight years, Caroline Pruitt Ashe of Little Rock, Arkansas; two daughters, Haley Ashe (Chandler Bouanane) of Springdale, Arkansas, and Kathleen Witcher (Lance) of Cabot, Arkansas; two grandchildren, Miera and Corbett Witcher of Cabot; his stepson, Nicholas Schaefer (Caryssa Lane) of Fayetteville, Arkansas; his mother, Floy Ashe of El Paso, Arkansas; and three brothers: Wade Ashe (Rachelle) of El Paso, John Ashe (Linda) of Castle Rock, Colorado, and Steven Ashe (LaDonna) of Wagoner, Oklahoma.  He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, in The Chapel of Cornwell Funeral Home in Dardanelle, with Pastor and brother Steven Ashe officiating.  Interment with full military honors will follow at Petit Jean Mountain Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 28, also in The Chapel of Cornwell Funeral Home.  Pallbearers will be Wade Ashe, John Ashe, Steven Ashe, Lance Witcher, Tony Seigrist, and Ray Johnson.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent directly to Caroline Ashe.

Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home in Dardanelle. Online Guest Book and Condolences at www.cornwellfuneralhomes.com