FALL RIVER-Phyllis J. (Madsen) Ashworth, 97, formerly of New Bedford passed away Sunday, January 18, 2026 at the Fall River Healthcare.  She was the loving wife of the late Richard Ashworth.

Born and raised in New Bedford, daughter of the late Carl A. And Johanne (Schmidt) Madsen, she was a 1946 graduate of New Bedford High School and a 1949 graduate of St. Luke's Hospital School of Nursing.  She worked as an RN for many years at St. Luke's Hospital and later as a private duty nurse.  Phyllis was a Deaconess at the Lund's Corner Congregational Church and she also attended the First Congregational Church of Marion.  She enjoyed reading and traveling with her husband.

She is survived by her three sons, Carl J. Ashworth and his wife Gayle of Hope Valley, RI, David D. Ashworth of Fall River and Kenneth E. Ashworth and his wife Nancy of East Taunton;  six grandchildren;  eight great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.  Mrs. Ashworth was the sister of the late Carl and Wilfred Madsen.

Her funeral service will be held Friday, January 23, 2026 at 11AM in the Donaghy New Day Cremation and Funeral Care, 465 County Street, New Bedford.  Visitation will be from 9-11AM prior to the service.  Burial will follow in Acushnet Cemetery.  For facility directions or memorial register  please visit, www.newdayfunerals.com.