Michael (Mike) Ashford of McKinney, Texas passed away on November 18, 2019 at the age of 75. He was born on March 5, 1944 and grew up in Maud, Texas. He graduated from East Texas State University, and then enlisted in the Air Force where he became a Captain in the Security Services and travelled the world. After retiring from the Air Force, he found his calling in investment banking and enjoyed a successful career with First Southwest Company and as a Managing Director of Dillon, Read & Co. He took great pride and joy in being a mentor to countless people and made lifelong friends with clients and colleagues alike. He was also a Master Mason and longstanding member of the Maud Masonic Lodge. Upon retirement, he returned to his hometown of Maud and enjoyed raising cows and racehorses with his wife, Tori. In 2013, they moved back to the Dallas area to be closer to friends and family.
Though incredibly accomplished in his profession, Mike would have much rather entertained you with one of his captivating stories, such as living aboard a sailboat in the Caribbean for a year with Tori and their English Mastiff, Chloe. He was an eternal optimist who was humble, genuine and kind towards everyone he met. He was a Renaissance man who loved reading, Absolute on the rocks, and winning at the horse races. Above all, he was a wonderful husband, father, mentor and friend who will be missed very much.
He is survived by his, wife, Victoria (Tori) Ashford of McKinney, Texas; daughter, Ariel Kidwell and husband Joseph of Dallas, Texas; brother, John Ashford and wife Cathy of Pagosa Springs, Colorado; sister, Amanda Ashford of Albuquerque, New Mexico; nephew, John Ashford and wife Melody of Denver, Colorado; and numerous other loving family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert Ashford and wife Elizabeth; great-uncle, Harvey Ashford and wife Marian; his son, Sean Ashford.
A memorial service will not be held. In lieu of flowers, the family gratefully recommends a donation be made in his memory to the Maud Masonic Lodge, 214 CR 1231, Texarkana, Texas, 75501.