April 10, 2023
Alfred “Benny” Ashley, retired Phoenix Fire Department captain and beloved founder of PSPRS, passes away at the age of 105.
Thanks to Ashley, firefighters and law enforcement across Arizona, have one pension system under Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS). Signed into law in 1968 by Governor Jack “One-Eyed” Williams the system ensures consistent benefits across the state.
Born on August 25, 1917, Ashley had a long history of service, joining the Phoenix Fire Department in July 1942. Ashley served for 31 years and retired as captain. He also served in the navy during World War II and the Korean War, and as president of International Association of Fire Fighters Local 493 in the 1960s. Ashley’s two brothers also served in the Phoenix Fire District, as did his son-in-law PFD Engineer Walt Lanphier (retired) who married Ashley’s daughter, Anita.
Ashley’s last appearance at PSPRS was for the August 2022 Board of Trustees meeting when he celebrated his 105th birthday. Funeral services will be held on April 24, at 10 a.m., at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 1954 N. 24th Street in Phoenix. More details are available in his online obituary.
