Bobby J. Vanover

Bobby J. Vanover, aged 84, of Ashland, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at the U.K. Kings Daughters Medical Center. A lifelong resident of Ashland, he was born to the late Andrew and Mary Terry Vanover on August 22, 1941. Bobby's life was one marked by dedication to his community, a spirited love for sports, and an unwavering commitment to his family.

Bobby's career at the Armco Steel Corporation was a testament to his hard work and loyalty, where he retired after many years of service. His faith played a pivotal role in his life, and he was a devoted member of the First United Methodist Church. There, he found joy in participating in the Food Pantry and cherished the fellowship of his Sunday School Class.

His community service extended to his role on the City of Ashland Park Board, where Bobby was instrumental in shaping the city's green spaces and ensuring that Ashland's parks were a place of joy and celebration for all. He embraced the city's activities and festivals with a passion that was as infectious as it was heartfelt.

He loved watching his granddaughters in all of their activities as well as cheering on the Kentucky Wildcats. There wasn't a day that went by that he didn't walk the park with his walking group and play pickleball.

Surviving Bobby are his two loving sons, Steve (Angie) Vanover and Randy Vanover of Ashland; his brothers, John (Marsha) Vanover of Ashland, and Doug (Janet) Vanover of Russell; his sisters, Emilie (Ray) McKinney, and Faye (Paul) Rakes both of Catlettsburg; sister in law, Alberta Vanover of Ashland. He was a source of wisdom and joy for his four granddaughters, McKenzie (Mason) Kirk, Rilee Vanover, Morgan Vanover, and Reyce Vanover; and an inspiration to his three great grandsons, Barrett Kirk, Wyatt Kirk, and Roy Hicks.

Bobby was preceded in death by his beloved wife Johanna J. Vanover, his daughter Tracy Vanover, his brother William Arthur Vanover, and his sisters Mary Katherine Vanover, Betty Lou Black Wynn, and Doris Ann Woods.

Funeral services to celebrate Bobby's life will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at the STEEN FUNERAL HOME, CENTRAL AVENUE CHAPEL, officiated by Rev. Jeff Bramel. Burial will follow at Ashland Cemetery where his granddaughters will serve as pallbearers. The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Saturday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church, Food Pantry, PO Box 1670 Ashland, KY 41105-1670.

To leave a condolence or share a memory of Bobby, please visit www.steenfuneralhome.com.