SMYRNA - Ashleigh Nicole Close was tragically killed on Monday, Sept. 10, 2012 in New Castle, Del. Ashleigh was born Sept. 17, 1985 in Salisbury, Md., the daughter of Barbara L. Close of Smyrna and Duane F. Close of Dover, Pa. She was a very artistic person who had a love of reading, painting, and being at the beach. She loved her family and friends. Ashleigh only saw the best in people and was loved by all who knew her. She also volunteered her time helping animals at the Kent County SPCA. Ashleigh loved life and had a way of lighting up a room with her smile, laughter, and her way with words. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her brother, Tyler M. Close and his wife Lisa of Phoenix, Ariz.; Christine Maffia of Smyrna, whom she also considered her mom; her father's fiancée, Melissa Naill of Dover, Pa.; her maternal grandfather, Larry R. Richardson of Delmar, Del.; her paternal grandmother, Helen M. Close of Phoenix, Ariz.; her maternal great grandmother, Erlene Strouth of Swords Creek, Va.; her aunts and uncles; and a host of extended family members and close friends. Memorial Services will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 18, 2012, at 6 p.m. in the Faries Funeral Chapel, located at 29 S. Main St. in Smyrna, where friends may call at 4 p.m. Burial will be private. Flowers are welcome, or donations may be sent in Ashleigh's name to the Kent County SPCA, 32 Shelter Circle, Camden-Wyoming, DE 19934. Condolence letters may be sent by visiting www.fariesfuneralhome.com.