John Paul “Butch” Ashby passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by love, on January 8, 2026, at the age of 80. Born in Brownwood, TX, to Paul and Virginia Ashby, John spent his childhood in towns across West and West-Central Texas. In 1960, the family moved to Lubbock, where John attended Monterey High School. He graduated in 1963 and went on to attend Texas Tech University. It was at Texas Tech that John’s lifelong passion for Red Raider athletics began. Football, baseball, basketball, and track became defining joys of his life and remained so until his final days. Beyond Texas Tech, one of John’s greatest passions was following his brother Gary throughout his baseball journey, from high school and college to the professional ranks. John logged countless miles on the road and never missed an opportunity to show his support. In 1975, John met the love of his life, Dianne Bryan Ashby, on a blind date.. They eloped in Reno, NV, in 1978 while on a baseball trip watching Gary play AA ball for the San Diego Padres. True to form, they planned their courthouse wedding around game schedules and honeymooned at IHOP. Their marriage spanned nearly 50 years. John found great joy in woodworking and carving, creating cherished handmade pieces such as wooden ducks and furniture. He spent his final 12 years in Scottsdale, Arizona, with his wife Dianne and daughter Whitney, enjoying warm weather, daily walks, caring for hummingbirds, and the beauty of the surrounding mountains. A devoted animal lover, John rescued countless cats over the years and cared for his dogs as if they were his children. He was known for his quirky sense of humor, candid nature, and unfailing politeness, often punctuated with a “yes ma’am.” He was genuine, loyal, and authentically himself. John was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Virginia Ashby, and his sister, Gloria Ashby. He is survived by his wife Dianne and his daughter Whitney, both of Scottsdale, AZ; his brother Gary Ashby and wife Terri of Lubbock,TX; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law John and Rebecca Crow of Grand Prairie, TX; numerous nieces and nephews; and his beloved grandpuppies. In his final weeks, John experienced one of his greatest joys, watching Texas Tech win its first Big 12 Football Championship. He cried tears of joy, a fitting reflection of his lifelong devotion to the Red Raiders. In accordance with John’s wishes, no formal services will be held. His family will gather privately in Texas to honor his life. Those wishing to honor his memory are invited to share personal stories or make memorial contributions to Hospice of the Valley, whose compassionate care brought great comfort during his final days. When you hear the sound of a whistle, the crack of a bat, or the swoosh of a net, think of our beloved John, forever cheering on his Red Raiders.