Member Profile

Ashley Johnson is a dedicated professional with a passion for ensuring compassionate, informed, and equitable end-of-life care for all. With a diverse background and unwavering commitment to community, Ashley is at the forefront of the death care industry. An alumna of the University of Florida and holder of a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of Central Florida, she is also a licensed direct disposer and celebrant. These credentials, combined with her nonprofit leadership experience, reflect her deep understanding of the complexities of end-of-life practices.

With over a decade of experience spanning forensic anthropology to whole-body donation, Ashley founded Loyal Hands, an end-of-life doula consulting agency providing education, resources, and companionship to agencies, the elderly, and individuals of all ages—recognizing that everyone has an end-of-life journey.

Ashley’s impact extends beyond her consultancy. She has engaged with leading organizations including the Cremation Association of North America (CANA), National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization(NHPCO), The Coalition to Transform Advanced Care (CTAC), and the Florida Palliative Care Coalition. Since 2020, she has served on the board of the National End-of-Life Doula Alliance (NEDA), where she now holds the role of president.

In her community, Ashley volunteers with hospices and nonprofits and serves as Event Director for Get Your Rear in Gear Orlando, raising awareness for colon cancer. She has contributed to PsychArmor’s veteran care training series, serves on the Compassion & Choices African American Leadership Council, and is a TEDx speaker amplifying conversations about inclusivity in death care. She is also co-author of a publication in the Journal of Palliative Medicine.