 On 24 October 2000, Ashton was awarded the Australian Sports Medal for his rugby league achievements.The Ashton-Collier Medal is awarded to the 'man of the match' on the annual Anzac Day clash between Sydney Roosters and St George Illawarra Dragons, and the medal is co-named in the honour of Ferris Ashton and Bill Collier.Ferris Ashton died on 29 January 2013.