Obituary of Ashli Lynne Close

Ashli L. Close, 33, of Minier, passed away on Monday, June 30, 2025, in Armington. She was born in Peoria on May 7, 1992, to Phillip Alward and Teresa Close.

She is survived by her parents, Phillip (Misty) Alward of Minier and Teresa (Mark) Shoen of East Peoria; four children, Lillie, Braxton, Elijah, and Christopher; three sisters, Violet Smith of Gatewood, MO, Rebekka Hess of Lafayette, IL, and Tiffany (Chevy) Fields of Minier; five brothers, Jeff Alward of Ft. Meyers, FL, Dakoda (Taylor) Close of East Peoria, Allen Shoen of Galva, Tanner Hall of Peoria, and Jarrod Whitehurst of East Peoria; her grandparents, Tom Smith and Diane McBride, both of Gatewood, MO, Debra Meyers of Elmore, Anne Shoen of Galva, and her Grandma Karen; her boyfriend, Mark Rich; long time best friend, Nicole Conner and her dad, Jamie Ewing; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins that were close to her.

She was preceded in death by her Aunt Jen Alward; and Grandfathers, Ken Alward, Jerry (Scott) Meyers, and George Shoen.

Ashli graduated from Olympia High School. She worked at Bob Evans in Bloomington and loved her girls there, and Turtle who made her smile every day.

She loved the outdoors, camping, tubing and bonfires. She also enjoyed listening to music and hanging out with friends and family.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Cremation Specialist of Illinois is assisting the family. A Celebration of Life will be held from Noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Veteran’s Shelter in Fondulac Park in East Peoria. Food is provided. Bring photos or memories to share. We'll end the day with a purple balloon release.

Memorial donations may be directed to Ashli’s father, Phil Alward, to benefit the college fund established for Ashli’s children. Online condolences may be left at www.CSofIL.com.

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