Memorial and Support Fund for Ashleigh Fechney

$18,100 donated
Given by 278 generous donors in 25 days

Memorial and Support Fund for Ashleigh Fechney, “Ashleigh the Advocate”

Christchurch, Canterbury

It is with deep sadness that we share the sudden loss of Ashleigh Fechney (Streb), known to many as ‘Ashleigh the Advocate’ on New Years Day. Ashleigh tragically passed away while on holiday in Lithuania with her husband, Andy.

Ashleigh had a rare combination of strength and compassion, and an unwavering drive to change things for the better. She fought tirelessly for people’s employment rights and believed deeply in fairness and dignity. She gave her time, energy, and heart to anyone who needed help.

Lithuania was not just a place Ashleigh and Andy were visiting. It was a trip to explore the culture of a country they felt deeply connected to, as they were well into the process of adopting children from there and building a beautiful life with them. Yet another reflection of Ashleigh’s lifelong commitment to helping others.

Ashleigh’s death has left a profound absence for Andy, her family, and the friends, colleagues and clients who relied on her wisdom, honesty, and care.

Any funds raised will help cover the costs of Ashleigh's memorial, as well as logistic support for Andy who is in Europe and facing both immediate and ongoing costs as he navigates this sudden and heartbreaking loss. Any contribution, no matter the amount, will help ease the pressure during an incredibly painful time.

Ashleigh gave so much of herself to others. This is a way for those who were touched by her, to honour her life by supporting the person she loved most deeply.

Thank you for your support.

Andrew Amesbury's involvement (page creator)

This page has been set up with Andy's permission by the couple's close friends. All proceeds will go directly to Ashleigh's husband, Andy.

Use of funds

This page has been created to support Ashleigh's husband, Andy, with overseas medical costs, travel, repatriation and memorial expenses and to give him some time to grieve as he begins the unimaginable task of life without her.

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Latest update

Livestream link and call for RSVPs  13 January 2026

Thank you all for the incredible support and kindness shown to date.

We are writing to share the livestream link for Ashleigh’s memorial service, and to make a final call for RSVPs for those planning to attend in person.

The livestream will go live at 12.45pm on Friday 16 January, with the service beginning at 1pm:

https://www.youtube.com/live/XXvTZiVU_V4

If you are planning to attend in person, all are welcome. Please RSVP via the event link and join us at the Dunsandel Community Centre on Friday. The service will begin at 1pm:

https://www.facebook.com/events/741094815710453

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Latest donations

Guest Donor
Guest Donor 5 days ago
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Claire Simon
Claire Simon on 22 Jan 2026
To have people talk of Ashleigh so highly will be a comfort. She did a lot in her life and society so needs caring people like her. A tragedy to lose her. Our heartfelt condolences. RIP Ashleigh🪽
$175
Guest Donor
Guest Donor on 18 Jan 2026
$50
Jane
Jane on 18 Jan 2026
We are so sad that you lost Ashleigh, Andrew. We love you and are praying for you. Grandma and Grandpa JB
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Sam & T
Sam & T on 17 Jan 2026
She was such a sensational friend and will be so missed <3 x
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Who's involved?

Andrew Amesbury's avatar
Created by Andrew Amesbury
Andrew Streb's avatar
Paying to a verified bank account of Andrew Streb
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This campaign started on 4 Jan 2026 and ends on 28 Feb 2026.