December 17, 2025, 38, Goldsboro – Ashley Nicole McKinley, born September 2, 1987, was called home to be with her Lord on December 17, 2025, at UNC Chapel Hill. Ashley’s life was a beautiful testimony of faith, love, and selfless service to others.
Born to Wendi Scobey and Jeff Steelreed, Ashley lived her life anchored in her deep love for God and her personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Her faith was not only something she spoke of, but something she lived daily—through kindness, humility, and an unwavering servant’s heart. Her family and church family were her greatest earthly treasures, and she poured herself wholeheartedly into loving and caring for them.
Ashley truly had a heart of pure gold. She was a natural caregiver, always placing the needs of others before her own, making sure everyone around her was cared for, comforted, and loved. Her smile could light up an entire room, bringing warmth and peace to all who encountered her.
She found great joy in the simple, beautiful things in life. Ashley loved the farm, working with her hands, and nurturing life through gardening—especially her beloved zucchini. These moments reflected her gentle spirit and her appreciation for God’s creation. It was during her gardening times that she enjoyed her private fellowship with God.
She was preceded in death by grandfathers, Arthur Boston and Clayton Snowden and her grandmothers, Sandra Boston and Judy Swick.
Ashley is survived by her devoted husband of 18 years, Steven McKinley; her beloved children, Nicole Nichols and Christopher Nichols; her parents, Wendi Scobey and Jeff Steelreed (Jeannie); her siblings, Stephanie Bennet, Michael Hudson (Hannah), Jimmy Bundy (Christina), and Michael Scobey; and her cherished grandmother, Colleen Snowden and grandfather, Joe Swick. She is also lovingly remembered by her many nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, her Lord’s Vineyard Family, and numerous other relatives and dear friends.
Though Ashley’s time on this earth feels far too short, her legacy of faith, compassion, and unconditional love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her life pointed others to Christ, and her memory will forever be a blessing.
A memorial service celebrating her life will be held Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 12:00 PM at The Lord’s Vineyard, Goldsboro NC.
Services entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service Inc.
