Ace Patton Ashford, an 18-year-old rodeo roper, tragically passed away on August 12 after a freak accident near Chilton, Texas. While helping a sick cow, Ashford’s leg got caught, causing him to be dragged by a frightened horse across an open field. Though he was found with head injuries and was alive when first responders arrived, Ashford later died at the hospital.

Ashford was a talented roper, just weeks away from starting college at Hill College after recently graduating from Rosebud-Lott High School. His obituary noted, “Ace would dedicate innumerable hours to roping in order to reach his full potential,” and described him as someone who loved the outdoors, rodeoing, and spending time with friends.

“Ace never met a stranger, and he had an old soul,” remembered those who knew him, reflecting the deep impact he had on his community. His girlfriend, Sydney Boatright, expressed her grief in a heartfelt Facebook post, writing, “I love you forever, Ace Patton.”

Ashford’s tragic death has left a void in the lives of many who cherished him