“Praise the Lord. Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who finds great delight in his commands.” Psalm 112:1

James Michael “Mike” Asby, 71, of Centerville, Texas, passed away at home on November 18, 2025.

Born on May 8, 1954, in Navarro County, Texas, to Aubrey Hulon Asby and Mary Virginia Asby, Mike lived a life marked by unwavering devotion – to his faith, his family, and his community. He and his beloved wife Ann, his high school sweetheart and wife of over fifty years, built a life together rooted in love and service. They raised three sons – Cameron, Marcus, and Jeffrey – instilling in them the same values of kindness, humility, and integrity that Mike lived by every day.

Mike embraced fatherhood with boundless energy and affection. He often joked, “Ann raised them, I just played with them,” a sentiment lovingly captured in countless home videos. His passion for youth and sports shone through in the many seasons he spent coaching not only his sons but also numerous other children in baseball and basketball. A lifelong and long-suffering Astros fan, Mike endured the team’s ups and downs, celebrating two long-awaited World Series wins with the joy of a true believer. In his later years, nothing brought him more happiness than cheering on his eight grandchildren in all their endeavors. He also cherished time on the water, a love of fishing passed down from his father and shared with family and friends across decades.

Mike’s commitment to public service was a cornerstone of his life. After graduating from the Texas Department of Public Safety Training Academy on June 12, 1975, he dedicated over five decades to serving Leon County and the State of Texas as a State Trooper. He mentored countless young officers, leading by example with calm resolve, respect, and fairness – even in the most difficult moments. In Centerville, Mike was known as much for his steady, compassionate presence as for his badge. Whether responding to accidents on Interstate 45 or offering a quiet prayer to someone in need, he brought grace and humanity to every situation. Mike embodied a kind of authority that built trust and broke down barriers – firm yet gentle, respected because he respected others.

His service extended far beyond uniformed duty. Mike was a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Centerville, where he served as a deacon for thirty-three years and taught Sunday School for more than three decades. He guided generations of believers, led youth at church camps, and supported families with a servant’s heart. He also championed education and youth programs through his eighteen years on the Centerville I.S.D. school board. Many in the community also knew Mike through his antenna and satellite installation business, where he treated every customer like family and never hesitated to lend a helping hand.

Mike’s faith was quiet but steadfast, active and deeply compassionate. Perhaps his greatest gift was his ability to offer comfort and connection during life’s most vulnerable moments. He was a pillar of strength, a true gentleman, and a light that will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Ann; his son, Cameron and wife, Carin, and their children, Anna Kate, Betsy, Leo, and Mary; his son, Marcus and wife, Megan, and their children, Clark and Helen; and his son, Jeffrey and wife Adrienne, and their children, Elaine and Andrew. He is also survived by his sister, Sheila Thomas and husband, Roy; his sister, Sharon Hamrick and husband, Edd; his brother, Paul and wife, Cindy; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends; and his best dog friend, Harley. He was preceded in death by his parents and by his son, Eric Brown Asby.

Mike was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed. All who knew him were better for it.

“Surely he will never be shaken; a righteous man will be remembered forever.” Psalm 112:6

A memorial service to celebrate his remarkable life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the Cowboy Church of Leon County in Centerville, Texas. Pastor Tony Moye of First Baptist Church will officiate. A brief time of visitation will be held at the church beginning at 10:00 a.m. 

Honorary Pallbearers:  Clark Asby, Leo Asby, Andrew Asby

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church, Children's Camp Fund, P.O. Box 609, Centerville, Texas 75833.

Arrangements are entrusted to Walters Funeral Home, Centerville, Texas --  A Walters Family Funeral Home.