In the summer of 2015, the community surrounding Audubon Street in Detroit was shaken by the loss of a beloved family man and friend. Marshall Ashford, a 61-year-old African American male, was fatally shot on August 8, 2015. The incident that cut his life short took place at 4809 Audubon, leaving a void in the lives of those who knew him.
Marshall, born in Detroit on December 23, 1953, was a man of deep faith and strong family values.
He accepted Christ at a young age at Freedom Missionary Baptist Church and was a faithful member of Faith Covenant Fellowship, where he served in the culinary department. A 1972 graduate of Southeastern High School, he honorably served in the United States Army and continued his service in the Army Reserve. For many years, he was a dedicated employee at the Chrysler Corporation, from which he retired in 2008.
He was a devoted husband to his wife, Lillian, whom he married on Christmas Eve of 1985. Together, they raised a family that included three daughters, Samika Miller, Nikki Ashford, and Myia Ashford, and a son, Demond Anderson. His love for family extended to helping raise another relative and a nephew. Known for his hospitality and love of music, Marshall was a man who treasured his family and was adored by children. His matter-of-fact style and encouraging words made him a friend to many.
Despite the passage of time, the case of Marshall Ashford's death remains unsolved. To this day, no arrests have been made, and no suspects have been publicly identified in connection with his murder. The investigation into his death is ongoing, and his family continues to seek answers and justice for the man who was a pillar of their family and community.
