Chief Willard “Will” R. Ashford Jr., 98, of Seminole, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2026. He was born on May 16, 1928, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to Willard R. Ashford Sr. and Lara Belle Ashford.
He grew up with a strong work ethic and a future calling to serve others. Will left school at 14 to begin working, and by 16, he was proudly serving his country in the U.S. Navy Seabees during World War II. After returning home, he built a long and respected career with the Baton Rouge Police Department. He became Acting Chief in 1974 and was appointed Chief of Police in 1975, earning the trust and admiration of both his fellow officers and the community he served.
Later in life, Will found joy and companionship with his beloved wife, Patsy, and together they created many cherished memories.
Will embraced life with the same energy and curiosity he brought to his career. Will had a love of music and was a talented guitarist in a local band in Baton Rouge. He also became a pilot, traveled the country in his motor home, biked from here to Key West at 80 years old with his son and grandson, loved the outdoors, was an avid fisherman, and could fix just about anything.
He enjoyed staying busy, learning new things, and sharing those passions with the people around him. Will leaves behind a legacy of service, resilience, and a life fully lived — defined not only by his dedication to others, but by the adventures, talents, and simple joys he pursued along the way.
He leaves behind his wife Patsy, three sons (Will, Chris and Michael) and two step daughters (Melanie and Shannon Haynes) as well as grandchildren.
A service honoring Will’s life will be held at Bay Pines National Cemetery on September 18, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time.
Will participated in the Honor Flight for Veterans to New Orleans WWII Museum with other local veterans and Gary Sinise. It was a special trip that he held close to his heart. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Gary Sinise Foundation.
