In Loving Memory of Trenton E. Ashley

On June 3, 2026, Trenton E. Ashley passed away suddenly and far too soon at the age of 37 while playing with his son, something he loved dearly. We would have chosen more time, more memories, more years, and more moments. But even in a life that feels far too short, Trent left behind something eternal: a legacy of faith, love, laughter, and a heart that made people feel seen.

Found by the Shepherd was created to keep Trent’s memory alive and to point people to the Jesus he loved. Each little lamb is placed with one prayer: that someone would be reminded they are seen, pursued, loved, and never too far gone to be found by the Shepherd.

Honoring Trenton as a Husband & Father

The Family He Loved Most

Before this project was ever a website, a lamb, or a QR code, Trenton Ashley was Katy’s husband and Liam and Eli’s daddy.

He loved his family deeply. He worked hard, sacrificed quietly, and carried the responsibility of providing for them with so much love. Trent was the kind of man who showed up, protected, played, laughed, prayed, and wanted more than anything for his home to be filled with Jesus.

Katy was his best friend and the love of his life. Liam and Eli were his greatest earthly treasures. As much as Trent loved baseball, laughter, building things, and being with people, nothing mattered more to him than his family knowing and loving the Lord.

If Trent could tell you one thing, we believe it would be this: love your people well. Be present. Forgive quickly. Don’t keep records of wrong. Speak Jesus into your home. And live with eternity in mind.

Trent’s love for Katy, Liam, and Eli did not end when he left this earth. His legacy still lives in their home, in their stories, in their memories, and in every life that is pointed back to Jesus because of him.

Honoring Trenton as a Son & Brother

Love your people while you have them.

Trenton Ashley was the baby of his family, deeply loved by his “Momma” and treasured by his three older sisters. He loved his momma dearly.

His sisters loved him fiercely too. They protected him, teased him, cheered him on, and cared for him as only big sisters can. But as Trent grew, the baby brother became a protector in his own right. He stood tall for the people he loved, carried a deep loyalty, and made his family feel safe, seen, and covered.

His life is a reminder not to wait. Call your momma. Hug your siblings. Say the words. Forgive quicker. Show up while you can. Love your family in a way they can feel, not just in words, but in action and in truth.

“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” 1 John 3:18

To his mother and sisters, Trent was one of life’s greatest earthly gifts. His love, laughter, loyalty, and tender heart will remain woven into their family forever.

Honoring Trenton as Uncle TEA and as a Friend

Uncle. Friend. Safe Place.

To his nieces and nephews, Trenton “TEA” Ashley was Uncle TEA — fun, playful, present, and larger than life. He had a gift for getting down on a child’s level, making them laugh, joining their world, and helping them feel loved exactly as they were.

To his friends, Trent was the kind of person who made life lighter. He could make people laugh, have a deep conversation, tell the truth, and make you feel like you belonged all at the same time. He was easy to talk to, quick to welcome, and never too busy to notice the person in front of him.

Trent’s friendships remind us to be the kind of people who make others feel safe, included, and known. Invite people in. Laugh often. Ask real questions. Tell the truth with love. Be present enough to notice who needs encouragement.

“A friend loves at all times.” Proverbs 17:17

Trent’s love as an uncle and friend still lives on in the laughter, stories, memories, and countless “Trent moments” that will be carried for years to come.

You are worth pursuing

If you feel like you have wandered too far for the light to reach, we have some incredibly good news. You are cherished, you are wanted, and you are never out of reach.