The Illinois State University community, along with family, friends, former teammates, students, and colleagues, is mourning the passing of Ashley Santos, whose death has left an immeasurable void in the lives of all who knew her. A standout Division I soccer player, accomplished scholar, dedicated educator, and respected professional, Ashley will be remembered for her extraordinary achievements, unwavering determination, and compassionate spirit.

Ashley Santos passed away on July 21, 2026, at the age of 27 in Richmond, Virginia. Born on February 27, 1999, in Fairfax, Virginia, she was the beloved daughter of Nelson and the late Lourdes Santos. She attended Naperville North High School in Naperville, Illinois, before continuing her education at Illinois State University, where she graduated with honors.

During her collegiate career from 2017 to 2021, Ashley established herself as one of the most accomplished student-athletes in Illinois State soccer history. A gifted defender and exceptional leader, she earned numerous academic and athletic accolades, including nomination for the 2022 NCAA Woman of the Year Award, two Missouri Valley Conference Scholar-Athlete of the Year honors (2020 and 2021), two First Team All-Missouri Valley Conference selections, CoSIDA Academic All-American Third Team recognition, and CoSIDA Academic All-District First Team honors.

Ashley also received the Missouri Valley Conference State Farm Good Neighbor Award and the Dr. Charlotte West Scholar-Athlete Award, reflecting her excellence both on and off the field. She concluded her collegiate career as Illinois State’s all-time leader in games started (89) and minutes played (7,421), leaving behind a lasting legacy within the Redbirds soccer program.

Following graduation, Ashley devoted herself to helping others as a mathematics teacher at Atlee High School, where students admired her patience, encouragement, and enthusiasm for learning. She later transitioned into the technology industry, serving as an Account Executive at Delinea, where colleagues appreciated her professionalism, integrity, and positive outlook.

Away from work, Ashley embraced an active lifestyle filled with soccer, football leagues, boxing, pickleball, outdoor adventures, and time spent with family, friends, and her beloved dogs. She was known for making everyone feel welcomed and valued through her kindness, generosity, humility, and genuine compassion.

Ashley was preceded in death by her mother, Lourdes Santos; grandparents, Egna and Gilberto Santos; and her cherished dog, Bailey.

She is survived by her loving father, Nelson Santos; stepmother, Lindsey; brothers, Andrew and Ryan; along with numerous extended family members, lifelong friends, former teammates, students, colleagues, and everyone whose lives were enriched by knowing her.

Family and friends gathered to celebrate Ashley’s remarkable life during visitation on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at National Funeral Home in Falls Church, Virginia, followed by funeral services and a private burial.

Ashley Santos will be remembered not only for her exceptional accomplishments as an athlete and scholar but also for the compassion, humility, and encouragement she shared with everyone around her. Though her life ended far too soon, her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of students, athletes, educators, teammates, and loved ones who will forever cherish her memory.