A 36-year-old woman killed in a weekend domestic shooting left behind three children, and friends are trying to raise money for her burial and for help with the kids.
“Ashley Marie Leonard was tragically taken from her family too soon,’’ according to a GoFundMe launched on behalf of Leonard’s father and children.
The deadly shooting happened Saturday on Hughes Street, according to Piedmont police Chief Nathan Johnson.
Damien Michael Bailey, 42, is charged with murder.
Johnson said Leonard was fatally shot while she and Bailey were arguing.
Bailey went before a Calhoun County judge earlier this week for an Aniah’s Law bond hearing. Circuit Judge Timothy Burgess set the suspect’s bond at $200,000 and ordered he be placed on GPS monitor if he is released.
Ashley Marie Leonard(Piedmont Police Department)
A preliminary hearing is set for early next month.
Leonard’s children range in age from 10 to 17.
According to the fundraising site, she worked for many years at Jack’s in Centre. Most recent, Leonard was a CNA at Cherokee County Health & Rehabilitation Center.
“To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors. Care-giving often calls us to lean into love we didn’t know was possible. We often say, to be in healthcare, you must have a heart for it. Ashley Leonard, CNA had just that and so much more,’’ the facility posted on Facebook.
“It is with deep sadness to learn of her unexpected passing. Ashley was a dedicated CNA who loved caring for others. Words could never express how much our residents and staff will miss her. At CCHRC, we are one big family. With heavy hearts, we write this post. We will all remember the impact she had serving others these past few years.”
Donations to the GoFundMe can be made here.
