Benjamin Reader Ashcom was the son of Charles A. and Mary A. (Diehl) Ashcom. He was the husband of Elizabeth "Eliza" (Barndollar) Ashcom. Elizabeth died February 13, 1894.

Obituary
The Christian Advocate - 1893
ASHCOM.--Benjamin R. Ashcom died at his home, in Everett, Pa., January 23. 1893. He was born at Bloody Run (now Everett), near the place of his death February 13, 181O, and within a radius of a few miles spent his entire life. On September 2O, 1837, he was united in marriage to Elizabeth Barndollar. To them were given twelve children, five of whom preceded him in death, the last, Mrs. A. W. Guyer, by only six days. The sudden news of her death, coming in his feebleness, no doubt hastened his end. He was a born Methodist. His father, Charles Ashcom, who died in 1871, in his ninetieth year, was baptized by Bishop Francis Asbury in his infancy, and uniting early in life with the Methodist Episcopal church, became one of the pioneers of Methodism. His home was the home of the itinerant preachers, and his house the place of religious services until churches were built. Thus, in childhood the son was inducted into the doctrines and economy of the Methodist Episcopal church. The Christian Advocate from its first issue was a constant visitor in his father's home, and after his marriage in his own home. He informed the writer that during the period of fifty-five years in which he had been a subscriber but two numbers failed to reach him. In 1845 he united with the Methodist Episcopal church. In his conversion he was blessed with a clear evidence of his acceptance with God, which formed the basis of a consistent and godly life. In his testimony he often remarked, "I have never seen the hour since my conversion when I could not say, "I love the Lord with all my heart and with all my soul." Not only himself but his house was dedicated to the Lord, and the family altar erected. Though catholic in spirit, he was decidedly a Methodist. He loved her doctrines, was loyal to her government, and held in reverence her ministry. His last hours were not only peaceful but triumphant, praising God as long as he had voice. The funeral services were held at his residence January 28, conducted by his pastor, the Rev. J. A. Wood, assisted by the other ministers of the town.