Wow. I'm so impressed I actually know where Timpson is (I think their mascot is the Wolves--we used to play them in basketball all the time). I wish I could be of help, but the rule around here is....be patient...someone will know and will be along shortly.
As a rank amateur I'm thinking that's awfully small for the guard of a sword, and it might be a d-ring.....but I'll let the guys who know tell you.
The obit says Charles W Ashton was the son of M.H. Ashton. I found him on FindAGrave, and it appears this may be an image of M. H. Ashton 3rd Texas Cav.
From the relatively small size of the C-guard knucklebow and apparant width of the blade in its leather scabbard, I'd say it's almost certainly a knife rather than a sword or saber.