Andrew Sterling Ashcraft was born on February 15, 1984, to parents Deborah Pfingston and Thomas Ashcraft in Orange, California. At the age of five, Andrew moved to Prescott with his family, where he spent the next 24 years of his life with his brother, Thomas James (T.J.) Ashcraft II, and his sister, Shelby Laura Pfingston.
Growing up in Prescott, Andrew attended Abia Judd Elementary School, Mile High Middle School, and graduated from Prescott High School in 2003. It was at Prescott High that he met the love of his life, Juliann Crockett Ashcraft. The two were married on July 22, 2006, in Prescott, and have four children: Ryder Sterling (6), Shiloh (4), Tate Andrew (2), and Choice Crockett (18 months).
Andrew became a member of the Granite Mountain Hot Shots in 2011, and was awarded the “Rookie of the Year” honors for that fire season. He loved every second of his time on the crew and had dreamt of being a firefighter since he was a boy. Andrew was known for his contagious smile, his heart of gold, his genuinely kind spirit, and for loving his mustache. He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Most importantly, he was a loving husband, a tender father and a friend to all.
I work in law enforcement in illinois. You are a hero, you are dearly missed by all. To his family…. i know its still hard but know he is looking over you. A husband, father, son, and in the first responder community our brother. I will soon visit you in February.
– Allen ParkerHave seen the film “No way out” yesterday in the evening first time and I´m so sad about these men of Honor. They died so cruelly and tough. They are all heros and will be never forget. Greetings from Germany.
– Sabine LehmannI know I have never met you, but I know you were an amazing person. Ryder has told me so much about you, and you truly have made a great impact on his life. He idolizes you, and hopes to be just like you someday. I wish the same. You are a hero to many, and will never stop inspiring people. I also just wanted to let you know that your family is amazing, and they have greatly impacted my life as you did theirs. You will always be in my heart. <3
– Braelyn SzpilewskiI love you and your family and I pray that they stay safe. Lots of love.