Jasper Ryans Jr.

Jasper Ryans Jr., affectionately known as “SuperMan,” age 68, of Houston, Texas, passed away July 18, 2020. He was born in Houston, Texas on February 11, 1952 to Alberta Latson (deceased) and Jasper Ryans Sr. (deceased).

As a child, Jasper’s adventurous curiosity was the source of much fun and trouble. Climbing trees was exhilarating because of the heights he could climb but he was in constant trouble with his mother. His ability to fit in tight spaces provided places for fun and security but constant annoyance to those looking for him. He also loved cartoons which was an affection he held through his last days.

Jasper graduated from Mary B. Smiley High School in 1971. He also acquired a degree in Automotive and Diesel Technology from Universal Technical Institute in 1989. This degree helped him expand his love for automotive repair, a hobby he used to help many others throughout his life.

Jasper served in the US Air Force from 1971 to 1975. During this time he was able to travel to different parts of the world. Doing so allowed him to not only discover more about himself, but also find the love of his life, Ruby, who ironically lived in his hometown, Houston.

Ruby and Jasper were married July 18, 1975. They have enjoyed 45 years of marriage to one another.

Jasper also took pride in all the work he did. He would literally work until he no longer could and give his last to those in need. Starting at the age of 15 he began working then using the proceeds from that labor to help support his younger siblings. That labor of love continued throughout his military service and marriage to Ruby. A large portion of his working career was dedicated to driving buses for the Houston Metro Transit Authority for 20 years. This allowed him to do what he loved most, driving and talking.

Jasper loved the Lord Jesus and the Scriptures. In his childhood, Jasper would be found doing various activities in and around New Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church. Most notable was his love for singing which he continued into adulthood. Throughout many moments of his life he could be found sharing the Gospel and his understanding on the wisdom of the Word. Many early mornings were spent reading, reflecting and praying.

Outside these accomplishments in life, Jasper loved to cook barbecue (he claimed was the best in his entire family), and to take on various building projects. He was an affectionate sibling, loving husband, guiding father, diligent and dutiful worker, jack of all trades and hometown hero able to meet most of the challenges presented to him and will be missed terribly.

He is preceded in death by his sisters Kay, Joan, and Vanessa and survived by his wife Ruby Ryans and children Nathaniel Ryans and Alicia Spiller, brothers: Willie Harrell, Larry Williams, James Harrell and Carl Williams, sisters: Raye Foxx, Brenda Hadnot, Beverly Richardson, Norma Jenkins, Carol Williams and Gloria Jenkins, grandchildren: A’Brianah Haggerty, Amari Spiller, Micah Ryans, Aniya Spiller, Hannah Ryans, Ava Ryans, Judah Ryans, and Aiden Spiller and a host of much loved nieces and nephews.