William Earl Jasper

William Earl “Billy” Jasper, 74, Nicholasville, passed peacefully in his home on August 26, 2019. Billy was born to Woodrow and Marie Jasper on January 18, 1945. He leaves behind his eighth-grade crush, Brenda Parks Jasper, with whom he shared 54 years of marriage. He is preceded in death by his parents as well as his beloved son Jim Jasper. His bright smile and contagious demeanor were on display as he walked the aisles of every cattle show in the state, supported dozens of Investment in Youth Livestock Sales in Central Kentucky, and stood ringside beaming with pride watching his grandchildren show cattle. Being a “Pa” was the job he took most seriously in life. He taught, loved, advised, and most importantly spoiled them with everything he had. With a natural talent for picking quality cattle and ability to feed one to perfection, he made a name for himself in the cattle business. His yellow notepads at the kitchen table revealed the intricacies of his thinking. Cattle weights, market prices, ration ratios, and breeding decisions could be seen hastily written around the margins. Beside these notes would lay his well-worn address book, busting with business cards and scratched notes, held together by a stretched rubber band and electrical tape down the seam. A physical representation of many friends met along the way. Billy was known for his ability to walk up to a stranger and walk away with a friendship. He relished in welcoming a new family into the cattle show family. Without hesitation, he would greet them as they set up their stall, and usually come away with a drink and snack from their cooler. You knew you were his friend if you were fortunate enough to be on the receiving end of his practical jokes and quick wit. In his presence, there was no lack of laughter. His great love was Brenda Jasper. Where you saw one, you almost always saw the other. There was always laughter, sarcasm, and a quick smile shared between the two in times of joy. Just to get her attention he would joke, “She’s got a pretty good swing for an old gate.” The two undoubtedly waded through mounds of adversity in their nearly five-and-a-half decades together. Despite this, their love was steadfast even in the darkest moments. Determination in facing life’s challenges was strengthened by commitment to supporting one another. When his ability to communicate or respond was compromised, he knew when her hand was in his. Billy Jasper was surely created from the toughest material God had available. He outlived every challenge that statistically should have ended his life and did so with what appeared to be ease. His love for his family and those he considered family ran deep in his veins. His life was lived with a stubborn drive to survive and succeed whenever possible. That bright smile, a witty comeback, and big hug will be missed by those who loved him most. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Kentucky Junior Angus Association at 1220 Angus Trail, Lexington, Kentucky 40509.