Officer Ashley Marie Guindon

Police Officer Ashley Marie Guindon, 28, of Woodbridge, VA, formerly of Merrimack, NH, was killed in the line of duty on Saturday, February 27, 2016. Adored daughter of Sharon Nowak Guindon and the late David Guindon; cherished granddaughter of her paternal grandparents, Dorothy Guindon and the late C. Edward Guindon; as well as her maternal grandparents, the late Walter and Stella Nowak Sr.; beloved niece of Deborah B’Shara (Richard), Christine Munzert (late Paul), Mark Guindon (Stephanie), Tom Guindon (Joanna) and Walter Nowak (Michele). Her uncle Peter Guindon predeceased her in 2007. Loving goddaughter and niece of Maryanne and David Scibelli. Also survived by her many nieces, nephews, cousins and other extended family. Ashley began her career May 27, 2012 with the Prince William County, VA Police Department as an intern with the Special Victims Unit and graduated with honors from the Police Academy in June of 2015. After taking a short leave of absence, Ashley returned to the PW Police Department and was sworn in February 26, 2016. As a young girl, Ashley was an avid dancer and ultimately became a beloved cheerleader in high school. Serving the community was a passion early in Ashley’s life, as she participated in the Jr. ROTC program at Merrimack High School, where she graduated in 2005. Ashley went on to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the world’s largest fully accredited academy specializing in aviation and aerospace. After her graduation from Embry-Riddle in 2011, Ashley and her mom had an experience of a lifetime as they traveled from Florida to Virginia. It became a memorable mother-daughter bonding road trip. Ashley fulfilled a dream as she was able to pilot a helicopter during her six-year duty with the Marine Corps Reserves. Although flying was her ultimate highlight, Ashley was involved in other aeronautical endeavors during her time as a reservist. During this time of her life, Ashley also assisted with the Mortuary Affairs Office; her warmth and compassion toward others made her a standout to those around her. Ashley’s life outside of her career as an officer was filled with a variety of loves, such as those for birds and animals or "God’s Creatures" as she would call them. She especially had a fondness for her furry friend, "Scout," the family Pug. Ashley’s mom, Sharon, reports that Ashley would call her all the time to check in on Scout, who happens to still be "going strong" at 13 years old. In her spare time, Ashley was a nanny for the Carrera family, which ultimately developed into a strong, loving relationship with the children and parents. No longer was Ashley just the "Nanny," she was a part of their family. Ashley was always there for her community, volunteering with the Suicide Prevention Program, and serving at the local Soup Kitchen on Thanksgiving. Wherever a helping hand was needed, Ashley was there. Lastly, although the pictures circulated across the country show Ashley in Police Class A uniform, according to her family and friends, she was a definitive fashionista! Her personality and love of fashion was an integral part of Ashley’s personality. Sharon Guindon and family will receive friends at the Agawam Funeral Home, 184 Main Street, Agawam, MA 01001 on Sunday, March 6, 2016 from 2:00 to 6:00 pm. The public is asked to meet for the Mass of Christian Burial, which will be held at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 395 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA 01104 on Monday, March 7, 2016 at 11:00 am. Interment with Police Honors will follow at the Saint Thomas the Apostle Catholic Cemetery, 420 Kings Highway, West Springfield, MA. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Prince William County Police Department’s Benevolent Fund or the Virginia Chapter of COPS. The family has entrusted Agawam Funeral Home, 184 Main St., Agawam, MA 01001 with these arrangements.