Michael Wayne Asbery

Michael Wayne Asbery, 49, passed away peacefully at his home in Wilmore, Kentucky, on August 7, 2025. Born on June 2, 1976, in Lexington, Kentucky, he was the beloved son of David Wayne and Lesa Asbery.

Known as Mike to most, Mikey to his family and longtime friends, and Asbery to those around the Stockyards, he had a boisterous personality and never met a stranger. He had a special gift for making fast friends and was a true buddy to anyone fortunate enough to cross his path. His life was marked by love, loyalty to family and friends, and a steadfast faith in God. His passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Mike was raised in the Buena Vista area of Garrard County, Kentucky. A cowboy from birth, he was a talented horseman and champion team roper. He was also a devoted outdoorsman with a passion for hunting and fishing—pastimes he especially loved sharing with his son, Silas.

Mike spent most of his life involved in the Kentucky cattle industry and was a longtime employee of Bluegrass Stockyards. Whether someone needed help working cattle, loading a trailer, or just good advice, Mike was always just a phone call away—ready and willing to lend a hand. He was also a gifted cook and was known for making the best grilled cheese sandwiches and French toast you’d ever eat.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, David Wayne Asbery; his maternal grandparents, Herb and Syvella Roberts; and his paternal grandparents, Robert and Faye Asbery.

He is survived by his cherished son, Silas Asbery; Silas’ mother, Laura True-Asbery; his loving mother, Lesa Asbery; his brother, Scott (Deonica) Asbery; niece, Abby (Noah) Stone; nephew, John Robert Asbery; uncle and aunt, Larry and Karen Roberts; and aunt, Lora Kay Roberts.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, August 12, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Betts & West Funeral Home in Nicholasville, Kentucky. Funeral services will take place Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 1:00 PM, officiated by Reverend John Ritchie.

Honorary pallbearers will be Silas Asbery, Scott Asbery, Abby Stone, John Robert Asbery, Ronnie Saylor, Wayne Saylor, Matt Lane, Scott Broughton, Matt Peyton, and the entire staff of his work family at Bluegrass South Stockyards.

Mike will be remembered for his big heart, bigger laugh, and the countless lives he touched along the way.

Betts & West Funeral Home is honored to serve Mike and his family in their time of need. The online guestbook can be found at www.BettsandWestfuneralhome.com.