Viewers have seen the former vicar (played by John Middleton) become more and more confused as his health declines.
By the end of this week, his loyal wife Laurel will face breaking point and decide she cannot care for him alone.
As well as Ashley, Laurel has two young children to care for as well as her teenage stepdaughter, Gabby (Rosie Bentham).
Understandably, Laurel decides Ashley would be happier in a residential home.
ITV
Emmerdale: Laurel Thomas is heartbroken as Ashley moves in to full-time care
ITV
Emmerdale: Ashley forgets he is moving away and becomes distressed
The night before he is due to leave, Ashley gets distressed and thinks he is being kicked out of his home.
But, the hardest part for Laurel comes the next day when she drops Ashley off.
In a bittersweet moment, the mother-of-two will see her husband is much happier living away from the family home.
Actor John is expected to leave the soap this year, with a departure date still
ITV
Emmerdale: Later on Ashley is happy again, away from the confusion of the family home
ITV
Emmerdale: Laurel is torn as she misses Ashley but knows he cannot live with her anymore
Emmerdale actor collapses on set
Tue, November 8, 2016
Emmerdale actor John Middleton who plays Ashley, comforts a female cast member after she collapses during filming of a Christmas episode.
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John Middleton comforts a female cast member after she collapsed during filming
Last month, Emmerdale producer Iain MacLeod discussed how Ashley's storyline might progress.
He explained: "One of the things we're trying to do between now and the summer is find ways to make this a joyful story.
"Something that really warms the cockles as well as breaking your heart."
Emmerdale continues on Monday at 7pm on ITV.
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