Jasper Drayton III

Jasper Drayton III, age 83, of Dallas, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Jasper later graduated from high school in Westbury, New York. He proudly served his country in the United States Army as a combat veteran of the Vietnam War - a chapter of his life that reflected his courage, strength, and unwavering sense of duty.

Following his military service, Jasper dedicated nearly 30 years to the fire service, rising through the ranks to retire as a respected Captain. As a founding member of the Vanguards of Cleveland and a student of Cuyahoga Community College, he remained committed to both service and growth throughout his life.

Jasper was a gifted, self-taught tradesman who could fix, build, or repair just about anything. If something was broken, family and neighbors alike knew exactly who to call. His toolbox was extensive - and so was his confidence in using it. Whether tackling a household project or helping someone in need, he took pride in getting the job done right.

He had a lifelong love of learning and reading, with works by Stephen King and James Patterson often close at hand. When he wasn't turning pages, he was likely turning an engine. A proud member of the National Corvette Club, Jasper had a special affection for his Corvette - one of his many beloved "toys." His motorcycles carried him to roundups across the United States, where the open road offered both adventure and camaraderie.

Jasper was competitive at heart and found joy in sports, games, and especially bowling, participating in numerous leagues over the years. He loved a good challenge - and loved winning even more.

Jasper was very family oriented and cherished gathering his loved ones for RV journeys to Disney World, camping trips, and cross-country adventures. Whether cruising in his Corvette, riding his motorcycle, navigating the RV down the highway, or organizing his ever-growing collection of tools, he embraced life fully and invited his family along for the ride.

Jasper was full of life and always ready for the next project or adventure. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the things he built, the roads he traveled, and the family he loved so deeply.

He is the son of the late Jasper II and Laura Johnson Drayton. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Clark; and his brother, Stanley Drayton.

Surviving are his loving wife, Terry Ann Drayton; his seven children, Summa Martin-Grier, Kimberlyn Moore (George), Jason E. Drayton, Jasper Drayton IV, Jasmine Drayton, Rachelle Mosley (Nathan), and Jessica Ann Drayton-White (Jonathan); seven grandchildren, Dorian Scott, Elaysia Martin, Diara C. Black, Kamal M. Black, Noelle Grier, Isabella Mosley, and Gianna Mosley; one great-grandchild, Dorian Scott Jr.; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 pm Monday, February 23, 2026 at Georgia National Cemetery, 1080 Scott Hudgens Drive, Canton, GA 30114.

A repast will follow at New Seasons Church, 4457 Atlanta Highway, Hiram, GA 30141.

Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, North Carolina in charge of arrangements.