Ashley Elizabeth Binion, age 32, of Helena died in the early hours of Sunday January 7, 2018 as a result of injuries suffered in an automobile accident Saturday evening in Helena . The accident was a result of a seizure she had while driving.
Ashley was born in Michigan September 16, 1985 to Suzanne Marie (Mousaw) and James Allen Binion. Ashley attended schools in Helena and graduated from PAL in 2003.
Ashley and Jason Risner were married in Michigan in August of 2008. The two of them made their home in Helena and traveled the country in their Volkswagen bus. A few years later they divorced but remained close friends.
Ashley had a contagious laugh and loved hanging with her family and friends. She was a smart, warm hearted young lady, had a flare for writing and was a talented artist. Ashley was a person of her own mind. She had a great imagination and expressed it within her writings, drawings and paintings. She had written a few short story articles that some publishers received, commented and considered to publish for her. In Helena, you can find some of her drawings and paintings in a few coffee shops.
Ashley had an extreme independence about her, a true free-spirited individual. She would hear what others would say, she would listen to what others would recommend to her, but ultimately would do what she wanted, a very non-conforming person.
Following the death of her father, Ashley was challenged by many addictions and illnesses. Depression alcohol and different types of drugs lead her to many poor choices in her life. These addictions and choices continued to plague her the rest of her life. To some people we know that addictions can ruin good people. Ashley was doing very well with her recovery; attending weekly meetings, some on a voluntary choice. She was enrolled in the Helena College of Technology, and was to begin classes this week. She was so proud and excited this was happening.
Ashley was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents and her father, James Binion, in 2003. She is survived by her son, Sawyer; parents, Sue & Randy Wilke; sister, Andrea and her son, Tex; aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Visitation will begin at 12:00 p.m. with the family to receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Monday, January 15th at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A memorial service celebrating Ashley’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 16th at the funeral home. A reception will follow the service in social hall of the funeral home. In lieu of flowers Ashley’s parents (Randy and Sue Wilke) would like memorials in Ashley’s name made to the YWCA of Helena, P.O. Box 518, Helena, MT 59624 or to an organization of the donor’s choice.
Service Schedule
Visitation
12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Monday January 15, 2018
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 North Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Family Receiving Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday January 15, 2018
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Memorial Service
1:00 p.m.
Tuesday January 16, 2018
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Memorial Service
Tuesday January 16, 2018
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Visitation
12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Monday January 15, 2018
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 North Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Family Receiving Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday January 15, 2018
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Memorial Service
1:00 p.m.
Tuesday January 16, 2018
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Memorial Service
Tuesday January 16, 2018
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Renae Schulte says
Sue and Randy, praying for you as you face this difficult time. Please let us know if you need anything at all. So sorry for your loss. Ashley will never be forgotten! We loved that girl!
Aimee Muffick says
Sue, my heart breaks for you. You and your family are in my prayers.
Liz Tobel says
So sorry for your loss. Ashley was an amazing young woman. such a free spirit.
Mary Runkel says
My thoughts and prayers are with you Sue ! There are not enough words to say how very sorry I am for you and your family. Ashley always had a smile for everyone!
Sherri Staats says
Randy (and Sue). I did not know your daughter, but Randy I know your for many years from working with you at the Board of Funeral Service with the State. My heart and love goes out to you and your wife. I know that no words can express my heartfelt sorrow for all of you. Please know my prayers go with you at this time. I truly feel she is resting in the loving arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. May the love and memories comfort you. The Lord is my Shepherd I shall not want.
Lisa McCarthy says
Sue and Randy – I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May the memories of your daughter bring you peace and comfort.
Lisa McCarthy
Dave & Val Blade says
We are deeply saddened by the news of your loss, and pray that God will grant you strength and comfort. Our most sincere condolences.
Phyllis gilreath says
Sue and Randy so sorry for your loss. If you need anything let me know.
Linda Opie says
Sue and Randy, I’m so sorry to hear about your daughter may she rest in peace. GOD bless you all. Linda and Tim Opie
Bill Nese Sr. says
Sue and Randy,
Losing a child is never, never expected, and when it happens the world is a cold place, and you both know what I mean. My wish is that your Hearts can be a little warmed by your Friends who Love you at this time of Grief.
Peace, Bill Nese Sr.
Kristine L Anderson says
Sue and Randy I am sorry for your loss. Ashley was a good friend. She will be missed. She was talented, loving, kind, and a beautiful human period. My heart breaks for you and for all of us who lost such an amazing friend.
Dennis Beverlin says
Randy and Sue, Heidi and I are very sorry to hear about your daughter. We hope you are able to find peace and comfort as you remember her life and focus on her good accomplishments and how she may have impacted others. I know we are able to better live our lives as we honor the lives of those how have passed before us, and celebrate a life of those we have loved. Warmest wishes to you and your family.
Robert Speicher says
Sue : So sorry to hear about your loss. Grace and I are praying for your family. We remember the good times with Jim and the girls. Love Bob and Grace
Annette Wakefield says
Randy and Sue, Lynn and I are so very sorry for your loss. To lose a child is unbearable. We didn’t know Ashley but how sad to have her life end at such a young age. Our sincerest condolences. May the Peace and Comfort of our Lord surround you now and in your time of grieving. With heartfelt sympathy, Lynn and Annette Wakefield
Linda May Hall says
Randy and Sue,
I am so sorry you lost your little sweetheart. My sincere condolences.
May God bless you at this difficult time.
Dale and Juli Sanders says
Randy and Sue,
There are no words to say how very sorry we are. You are truly in our thoughts at this difficult times.
We are here for you in anyway we can help. May God help you find comfort in her memories.
Sandy Given says
We are very sorry for your loss Susie. Linda and I just learned of your loss. We are in Florida and I messaged Pat to see what was happening. So so very sorry. Our prayers are with you for peace and comfort.Just know we are thinking of you. God Bless.
Melisa says
Dear Randy and Sue,
We are so sad to hear of Ashley’s passing. She was a beautiful free spirit. I was lucky enough to work with her and she spoke of you both often. She appreciated and respected all you did to help her in troubling times. We will be thinking of you and your whole family as you navigate this difficult time.
Melisa and Curt Synness
Karen Jelly says
Randy and Sue,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your beloved daughter. I will keep you in my prayers.
Karen Jelly
Jan and Bill Martin says
Randy, Bill may know you wife, but as you know I didn’t. The loss of a child is the most difficult thing any of us can experience, my prayers, love and thoughts are with both of you as you know you can only take it one day at a time.
Tom and Anne Jacobson says
Randy and Sue, We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your precious daughter. The loss of a child is truly not like any other loss, the pain seems unbearable at times. May you find peace and comfort from the only One who can give it, our Lord and Savior , Jesus Christ. We will be praying for you and your family.
Shannon McMahon says
Dear Randy and Sue:
I’m very sorry for the loss of your daughter. May you find strength and peace from the love of family and friends.
Deb Kralicek says
Randy and Sue, My heart breaks for you. I can’t help but remember this beautiful little girl who was so full of life. I remember our daughters playing together and all the great times. Through good times and bad she always smiled and loved. A guardian angel now watching over you.
John Reddy says
Randy & Sue…We are saddened by the sudden loss of your daughter. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
be strong…John & Judy Reddy
Connie Robinson says
Sue and Randy, Words are never enough when you lose a child. May you be wrapped in God’s love and comfort. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sandie and Jim Stiffler says
Sue and Randy, We are so sorry for your loss. The loss of a child is something a parent should not have to deal with. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Karen Lorenz says
Sue and family, I am so saddened at the passing of Ashley! I can almost still see that precious smile as she bounced down the halls at school! What a precious angel ! Praying you will find comfort and peace.
Love and HUGS,
Karen
Michelle and Peter Van Nice says
We are so saddened and sorry for the loss of Ashley. There truly are no words that seem appropriate to say. May it give you peace and comfort knowing that she is with her Dad now in his arms. Keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers . Love to you dear friend – Michelle and Peter Van Nice
Andrea – so sorry for the loss of your little sister. Thinking of you and keeping you in my prayers during this most difficult and sad time. Love you, Michelle
Debbie Bice says
Sue & Randy,
My heart is heavy for both of you and all the family. Please know my thoughts & prayers are with you at this very difficult time.
Sue, wish we could be there for you, but know that our hearts are there. Love you!!
With much love to you. Debbie (Smith) Bice
Vickie Whitman Bregg says
Sue,
My heart breaks in a million pieces so I only can imagine how you feel. There are no words to express how sorry I am for your family If there is anything that I can do to help you here or there I will do it I understand more than you know
With love and strength and sincere sympathy ,
Vickie Whitman
Sara Robinson says
I am so sorry for your loss. Ashley was one of my best friends in the past and I have so many fond memories of her. She was such a unique and amazing person. I will be praying for your family.
Jim and Terry Gundersen says
Sue and Randy… there are no words… just know that we are thinking of you.
Carl and Gail O'Loughlin says
Our sincere sympathy for your tragic loss. We send many prayers your way.
Carol Jacobsen says
Dear Randy and Sue….please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of your daughter, Ashley. You are in my thoughts and in my heart.
Becky Swinney says
Sue & Randy:
Wish we could be there to hold your hand. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. If you need anything, please let us know. We love you.
Aunt Betty and Becky
Robin Richards says
Sue, I am so very sorry. You and your family are in my prayers
Russell Wardinsky says
I’m so sorry for your loss. You’ll be in my thoughts.
DANIEL AND TILLY POCHA says
Sue & Randy, Letting you know, your in our thoughts and prayers Our hearts were sadden hearing the loss of your dsughter. Hold all your greatest memories of your daughter close to heart. She will always be with you. May the Great Spirits guide her journey home. Loves and Hugs Daniel and Tilly
Deacon Bob and Karen says
Dear Randy and family,
Our sincere condolences at your profound loss. May God hold you all close to His heart in this time of grieving. Our prayers are with and for you.
Deacon Bob and Karen
Ellen Petrenko says
Randy and Sue… please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry to hear of Ashley’s untimely passing. It is our hope your wonderful memories of your daughter will help to comfort you during this difficult time. Ellen and Roman Petrenko
Don Pratt says
Sue and Randy So sorry to here of Ashley’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you. If there is anything I can do to help you through this trying time, please call on me
Joanne Homier says
Sue and Randy,
I am so sorry about your loss of Ashley. My love and prayers are with you.
Joanne Homier
Barbara Knutson says
Sue and Randy,
My heart is so sad for you all. You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time. Love to all of you.
Barb and Bruce Knutson
Mark Viergutz says
Sue only the good go early cause to me it seems their soul is off to learn and experience the next adventure. They are only ours for a little while. Hold on to the good and the not so good memories. They are part of what make you-you. Blessings.
Shelley Murray (Phalon) says
Susie, finding comforting words at a time like this is nearly impossible. After reading Ashley’s obituary I know your loss is immense. She must have been an amazing young woman…like her mom.
Eve Byron says
Oh Sue. My deepest condolences to you and your family. My heart hurts for you.
Catherine Ferguson says
Sue and Randy, my thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. No one should ever lose a daughter in her prime. May your friends and family surround you with their love and support.
Terri Gonzalez says
Sue, I am so sorry about Ashley. Perhaps we can find comfort in that she is with her Dad now and our grandmother and my Mom. If there is anything we can do for you please let us know, even if you just want to talk. Love you, Terri and Fernando
Maureen McCarthy Oelkers says
Sue & Randy, I am so, so sorry for your loss. Ashley is in the arms of our Lord now and in perfect peace. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Love, MO
Luke Armstrong says
She will missed.
Jeff and Colleen Richards says
Dear Randy and Sue,
Having recently lost our son, we know all too well the pain and anguish you are suffering and will continue to experience in the coming days, months and years and we are so sorry.
When the dust settles, we would be glad to meet with you and talk about living with this very unique loss. We pray for you as we think of you.
Terise Schaefer says
Sue, I can not even begin to imagine the pain that you feeling right now. My heart is breaking for you. Ashley was a truly beautiful soul. If you ever want to talk, call me anytime 435 674 0028 Terise Schaefer
Joshua fritz says
I will forever love & Miss Ashley she was the best she was the greatest and will forever be in my heart I only met her mother once and I only met her sister once but the thing is I called her my hippie and she called me her cowboy Ashley’s family really does not know me and I am sorry that we never got to know each other I would still like to get to know the family because how Ashley and I were we loved each other I was wanting to work things out again I was supposed to come down and see her but my truck broke down and I could not make it I feel bad for that I am sorry for y’all’s loss blessings prayers and much love to everyone
Joe Burnham says
Suzie,
We are so sorry to hear about Ashley. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Uncle Joe and the entire Burnham family
Diana and Tony Piccono says
Randy and Sue,
We were so sorry to hear about the loss of Ashley.
Prayers to all of you.