Ashlie Stevens-Marrone was born in Jefferson County, Texas. Undeterred by childhood circumstances beyond her control, she was precocious from the start. She enjoyed gymnastics and softball, and as an advanced student was able to complete high school and head off to college after just three years. A free thinker, she was somewhat discontented at the constraints of choosing any singular focus of study and has continued to be a lifelong learner with a voracious appetite for knowledge, both in and outside of the classroom.
Ashlie never forgot the kindness of those in the community around her, all of whom she could still name. From teachers, coaches, friends and their parents, neighbors, and various extended relatives, she learned early the impact that a small act of kindness can have on someone. It was very clear to Ashlie that without knowing it, a simple act of kindness might change someone’s life, and a lifelong spark was lit.
As her family’s creative visionary and the chief household officer to a company of eight, Ashlie has made it look easy while selflessly allowing her partner to fulfill his lifelong dream of building his own business. In an environment that should be absolute chaos with 6 children ranging in ages between 4-17, she’s managed to raise her children in a calm, organized, and emotionally supportive household where kindness and hospitality are core tenants. As a southern Mama in the truest sense, she is warm and loving but also tough when needed. Her children have been taught that the true sum of a person can only be measured by how they make others feel.
With a passion for what you might call, “quiet community building”, you will often find Ashlie’s home full of what her partner lovingly refers to as “miscellaneous children.” She can always be counted on to plan and execute new ideas to bring people together, and to volunteer her time. From block parties to class parties, decorating a friend’s classroom, volunteering at her children’s school, or showing up to support causes near and dear to her, she’s got her community covered.
Ashlie and her family have been involved in supporting Kindness Grows Here since it’s inception. After working to expand it’s mission, and then taking a step back during the COVID era to support five virtual learners and a newborn, she is excited to jump back in as her area’s Kindness Ambassador. Ashlie also serves children in the foster care system and in her ‘free time’ enjoys reading, camping, yoga, traveling with her family, and helping others find their zen with interior design and home organizational help.
