Obituaries

Thomas "Tom" L. Ashburn

10/15/1943 - 10/9/2025

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Obituary For Thomas "Tom" L. Ashburn

Thomas L. “Tom” Ashburn

October 15, 1943-October 9, 2025

Thomas L. “Tom” Ashburn, 81, of Altoona, passed away, Thursday at Graystone Manor, Bellmeade. He was born in Altoona, the son of the late, Leroy and Teresa (Reighard) Ashburn.

Tom is survived by his four children: Leann Keiper (Brian) of Sidman, Hope Kephart, Nick Noel (Brandi), and Jennifer Noel all of Altoona and; twelve grandchildren: Nicholas (Erin), Megan (Jeb), Allison (Ben), Kaylena, Ivan, Maxim, McKayla, Trent, Bryce, Alyssa, Cassidy and Courtney; six great-grandchildren: Tessa, Amelia, Leo, Laney, Rowan and Bayla. Also surviving is his brother, Richard Ashburn (Sharon) of Hollidaysburg; a niece, Heather Shale (Craig) and nephew, Kirk Ashburn and great-nephew, Evan (Julia) along with other great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jessica Noel.

Tom was a 1961 graduate of Bishop Guilfoyle High School and graduated from Penn State University with a degree in education.

He retired from Siemans Healthcare and had previously taught at Altoona School of Commerce and St. Rose of Lima Catholic School.

Tom enjoyed being a foster grandparent for Blair Senior Services.

He enjoyed watching Penn State and Pittsburgh Steelers football, reading Stephen King novels and loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Friends will be received from 4-6 pm, Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at The Stevens Mortuary, Inc., 1421 8th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602, with a funeral service immediately following at 6 pm in the Stevens Memorial Chapel with Pastor Douglas McGaffin.

Interment will be held at Blair Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made in Tom’s memory to: Blair Senior Services, 1320 12th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16601.

The family would like to thank Gentiva Hospice and the staff of the Graystone Manor-Bellmeade, for their care and kindness to Tom.

“There are some who bring light so great to the world that even after they have gone, the light remains.”

Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook.

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Condolences

  • 10/15/2025

    Ruth Lucey

    Every time I think of Tom, my first recollection is the time a young child called him "Mr. Hashbrown"! It still makes me giggle. Many recent movies highlight an individual's "Super Power." Tom's "Super Power" seems to have been his ability to enhance the lives of young people (and fellow workers) through teaching, encouraging, and simply showing them some respect and love. Thank you Tom for sharing your "Super Power." All the lives you have touched have been made better from knowing you. Go with God's Blessing! Ruth Lucey, Co-worker Altoona School of Commerce

  • 10/13/2025

    Gretchen

    One of the most memorable teachers I ever had. Rest in peace Mr. A.

  • 10/12/2025

    Renee Scarfone

    Rest in Peace Mr. Ashburn. You were a wonderful teacher and a kind and loving soul. Condolences to your family. 🙏🏻❤️

  • 10/10/2025

    Lori Matta

    So saddened to hear of Tom's passing. He was always so kind. I enjoyed seeing him in the kindergarten classes at Pleasant Valley Elementary when I subbed there and at the parties at the Clarks house. He was a good one and he will be missed.

  • 10/10/2025

    Mike Ziegler

    I'm sorry we did not pay our respects. Did not know. I've known Tom since the 80's since the days at Altoona School of Commerce. He will be missed. Mike & Annie Ziegler.

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