Riley Christopher Ashby

With broken hearts, we share the sudden and tragic passing of Riley Ashby, age 12, who died on July 19, 2025, after being struck by a car that ran a red light.

Riley was a joyful, adventurous, and kind-hearted boy who touched the lives of everyone who knew him. He had a deep passion for cars, motorcycles, and monster trucks — anything fast, loud, and full of energy, just like him. He loved fishing, spending time outdoors, and exploring the world around him with wide-eyed curiosity and a fearless spirit.

Riley had a love for travel that was far beyond his years. Whether it was a road trip, a cruise, flying on a plane, or exploring places like Disneyland or New York City, he approached every journey with excitement and wonder. He swam with sharks and dolphins, fed monkeys, and soaked in every experience with a bright smile and an open heart. He was an explorer at heart, always ready for the next adventure.

An avid athlete, Riley enjoyed playing basketball and football, and he was always up for a game with friends or family. He was a student at Columbia Middle School, where his kindness, humor, and big personality made a lasting impression on classmates and teachers alike. He had a heart full of love, a mind full of dreams, and a laugh that could brighten the darkest day.

He is deeply missed and forever loved by his mother, Ashley Gainer; his father, Michael Ashby; and his cherished sister, Cheyanne. He also leaves behind grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, cousins, extended family, and many dear friends who will carry his memory with them always.

A memorial service to celebrate Riley’s life will be held on August 10th, 2025 at Newcomers 190 Potomac st Aurora, CO 80011, beginning at 11:00 am. All are welcome to attend and honor the life of a boy whose light burned bright, even if far too briefly.

Though Riley’s time with us was far too short, he was our sunshine — full of warmth, laughter, and love. His smile lit up every room, and his joy touched everyone around him.

We will carry him in our hearts forever, and his light will continue to shine in all the places he loved, in every adventure we take, and in every moment of love we share.

Riley was — and always will be — our light, our joy, our everything.