Betty Pearl Ashley was born on May 17, 1949 to L. T. and Ruby Merchant, in Huntsville, Texas.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; sisters: Annie Lee Merchant and Ethel Bishop; brothers: Johnnie Lee Merchant, James Merchant, Jerrell Merchant and James Giddens and nephew: Byron Coutee.

Betty leaves to mourn her passing; sons: Kevin Ashley (Rosalyn) and Brenton Ashley; of Huntsville, Texas; grandchildren: Kevranique Ashley, Isaac Ashley, Shavon Evans, Kelcie Haynes, Quenisha Ellison, Kevon Ashley and Bryson Ashley; grandchildren: Jeremiah Lewis, Terriana Riles, Nalah Ellison and Kamden Kris Anthony Ashley; sisters: Roxie Wynne (Milton), Doris Merchant (Paul), Donna Merchant, Mazola Duron (Oliver) and Thelma Giddens (Charles); all of Huntsville, Texas and Earline Coutee (Billy); of Lufkin, Texas; brothers: Lewis Merchant (Denise) and Kenneth Giddens; both of Huntsville, Texas; aunts: Bobbie McGowan; of Huntsville, Texas, Edna Ballard (Bennie); of Texas City, Texas and Ida Mae Reece; of Houston, Texas; uncle: Billy Merchant (Seleen); of Texas City, Texas; special cousin: Richard McGowan and nephews: Joshua Pool and Michael Merchant.