Judiciary Mourns Passing of Senior Parish Court Judge Sasha-Marie Ashley

Jamaica’s legal community is grieving the loss of Senior Parish Court Judge for Hanover, Sasha-Marie Ashley, whose death on Monday morning has drawn tributes from across the judiciary.

Chief Justice Bryan Sykes, in a statement issued the same day, expressed deep sorrow at her passing following a period of illness. He described her death as a significant blow to the judicial system and extended condolences to her family, colleagues, and all those affected.

According to the Chief Justice, Judge Ashley distinguished herself through dedicated service and a steadfast commitment to upholding the law. He noted that her career reflected both promise and purpose, marked by integrity and compassion in the discharge of her duties.

Throughout her tenure, Judge Ashley presided in courts across Hanover, St James, Clarendon, and Westmoreland. Justice Sykes highlighted her ability to combine firmness with fairness, while maintaining a humane approach on the bench. Those qualities, he said, earned her widespread respect among litigants, attorneys, court personnel, and fellow members of the judiciary.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Judge Ashley was remembered for her positive presence within the court system. Justice Sykes described her as collegial and considerate, adding that her quiet resilience and genuine concern for others left a lasting impression on the institutions where she served.

Her passing marks a profound loss to Jamaica’s judiciary and the broader legal fraternity.