Glendin O. Asbury

Glendin Oltie Asbury, lovingly known as “Papa”, passed away on January 3, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas. He was 85 years of age.

Glen was born on October 11, 1940, in Yakima, Washington, to Oltie and Ruby Asbury. He spent his early years in Yakima alongside his sister Joanne Dempsey, and is fondly remembered by her children, Tim, Jim, Geri, and Jayann. He graduated from Selah High School and went on to earn his master’s degree from Washington State University in 1966. Education mattered deeply to him, and he later earned his PhD; however, his proudest professional achievement was his lifelong service to the United States Army. As a young man Glen served in Vietnam, and was awarded the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service and Bronze Star medals. Glen continued his military career in locations across the country and overseas. During his service he met Joan, a registered nurse, who would become his wife and partner in building a family. Together they raised their children, Alethea Asbury, Tara Ruby Asbury, and Aaron Asbury. They lived the life of a military family in New York, Germany, Virginia, Puerto Rico, Pennsylvania, and Hawaii. Through frequent moves and new beginnings Glen instilled resilience, independence, and strength in his children, who later built families of their own.

Glen served with distinction as a Military Police Officer, Provost Marshal, and Commander of the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) during his Army career. After retiring from the Army the family settled in San Antonio in 1992. Never one to sit still, Glen pursued his teaching certification and became a teacher in the North East Independent School District for many years.

Following the passing of his wife Joan in 2001 Glen found love again with Carole Asbury while teaching together. Glen transformed from a dedicated Army soldier into an easygoing, warmhearted “Dad” and later a beloved “Papa”. Glen and Carole were blessed by their blended family, and enjoyed a life filled with laughter, love, and connection. Glen also gained a stepson, Jordan Hook, who he came to love as his own.

Glen was a proud Papa to his grandchildren: Mason Bartels, Belle Asbury, Kellen Asbury, Sadie Asbury, Leo Hook, and Josie Hook. He cherished the families his children built with their spouses, Chad Bartels, Shannon Asbury, and Taylor Hook. He followed his grandchildren’s lives closely, always eager to hear about school, sports, music, and band, and never missed an opportunity to show his support. He was immensely proud of them and found great joy in watching them grow.

Music was a lifelong joy for Glen. He played the trumpet and piano and had a remarkable ability to play a song after hearing it just once. He loved 1950s rock and roll and had a deep appreciation for jazz. In his later years he became the friendly neighbor who knew everyone’s story, the Papa who slipped treats to his beloved dogs, Rocky and Micky, and the Dad who filled your car with gas and convinced you to take just one more cookie.

Glen’s life was defined by service, family, curiosity, and quiet acts of love. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion to his country, commitment to education, and unwavering pride in the family he built.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Glen’s life on January 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Schertz Funeral Home, 2217 FM 3009, Schertz, Texas, 78154.

Interment will follow at 2:15 p.m. at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, Pavilion Number 2, where he will be honored with a 15-minute military salute as a retired Lieutenant Colonel.