Ashton was a graduate of LDS High School in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Prior to his mission, Ashton worked as a reporter for the Salt Lake Telegram for three years.

In the LDS Church, Ashton served as a member of the Sunday School General Board starting in the 1930s.

Belva had previously worked as a secretary to Henry Eyring, when he was director of graduate studies at the University of Utah.

She served as a member of the church's Relief Society general board for 16 years during their marriage, and oversaw the building of the Monument to Women Memorial Garden in Nauvoo, Illinois.

[6] Ashton served as head of the Salt Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and was a key backer of the Utah Symphony.