In the heart of Texas, where grit and the cowboy way of life are cherished, tragedy has struck. Ace Patton Ashford, an 18-year-old rising rodeo star, was tragically killed in a devastating accident that has left his community mourning the loss of a young man who embodied the values of hard work, dedication, and the spirit of the Lone Star State.
On that fateful day, Ashford, known for his love of rodeo and the cowboy lifestyle, was caring for a sick calf when an accident occurred that cost him his life. According to reports, his leg got caught and tangled, leading to him being dragged by a horse across an open field for a significant distance. The Falls County Sheriff’s Department confirmed his death, expressing their sorrow in a statement: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Ace Ashford. Our condolences go out to his family.”
Ace had recently graduated from Rosebud-Lott High School and was set to begin a new chapter in his life, having earned a rodeo scholarship to Hill College. This promising young man was poised for great things, and his loss is deeply felt by all who knew him.
Ashford was more than just a rodeo competitor; he was a beloved member of his community, a hard-working young man with a heart of gold. Tributes poured in from friends and family, with his girlfriend, Sydney Boatright, expressing her love and grief on social media. “I love you forever, Ace Patton,” she shared alongside a photo of the two of them. His mother, Jamie Ashford, also shared her heartbreak, writing, “I miss you so much, Ace! I love you more!”
Ace’s obituary captured the essence of who he was, describing him as “the true definition of a hard-working country boy.” Born and raised in Lott, Texas, he lived his entire life embracing the cowboy way, excelling in rodeo and embodying the values that define rural Texas. Ace was a skilled roper and a member of the Texas High School Rodeo Association, dedicating countless hours to perfecting his craft. His hard work and dedication earned him a scholarship to join the Hill College Rodeo Team, a testament to his talent and determination.
But Ace was more than just an exceptional athlete; he was a young man of strong character, loved by all who knew him. His obituary highlighted his “heart of gold” and described him as someone who “never met a stranger.” Whether he was spending time outdoors, rodeoing, hunting, or simply hanging out with his buddies, Ace was always ready to lend a helping hand.
Ace’s faith was also an integral part of his life. He attended Temple Bible Church and Vista Community Church, and his family and friends take comfort in knowing that he is now “reunited in the arms of angels and the Lord above.”
Marcus Becerra, a rodeo flagger who knew Ace well, described him as “who you want your son to grow up to be.” Becerra spoke of Ace’s manners, respectfulness, and love for horses, remembering him as a “real great kid.” He added, “You meet these kids when they’re young, and you get to watch them win and you pull for them. That’s why it hurt quite a bit. Everybody knows how good a kid he was.”
Ace Patton Ashford’s life may have been tragically cut short, but his legacy of hard work, dedication, and kindness will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. The loss of this bright young star is a reminder of the strength of the Texas spirit and the enduring power of community, faith, and family.
