On, February 27, 1939, John “Jasper” Love was born to Ovetta Love Staples. He was the oldest and was preceded in death by his mother, Ovetta Love Staples and brothers, George Staples Jr. and Thomas Love.

Jasper was the Director of Public Works for the town of Victoria, Virginia for 49 years two months. In appreciation of his commitment and dedication to the Town, the town Maintenance Shop was named in his honor. Jasper was also a private contractor for plumbing and electricity.

Jasper lived a full life, enjoyed his many friends, his co-workers and all that knew him. He was such a joy to be around. He was loved for his teasing nature, his hearty laugh, his love for old music and his cunning ability to bring others together. He loved to entertain and was a “great host” with his Sunday morning breakfasts, his turkey shoots, the car show and his annual cookouts.

He took pride in his cooking, his gardening, his truck and the landscaping of his yard. Jasper’s favorite past-time was watching sports on TV from his recliner. His favorite NASCAR driver was Jeff Gordon. His baseball team was the Atlanta Braves. His loyalty for football waivered between the Green Bay Packers and Denver Broncos. He was known to play a mean game of Dominos and Crazy Eights.

Jasper was a lifetime member of the Queen’s Knight Ride Club and was known as “Pappa.” He looked forward to his visits from the Ride Club during his illness.

Above all, he understood that life was a brief gift from God, and that it should be enjoyed to the fullest. He truly enjoyed the moment for what it was worth.

On May 8, 2017, Jasper finished his earthly works and received a call, an offer he couldn’t refuse and an opportunity to reunite with family and friends.

Jasper had a big heart and an undying love for his family. He was lovingly known as “Pops” by his six children, John Love Jr. (Denia) of Victoria; Jenifer Clark (Mike) of Colonial Heights; Mary Crowder of Prince George; Paulette Hazelwood (Frankie) of Victoria; Nina Crowder of Chesterfield, and Helen Love of Crewe.

He will surely be missed by his siblings, Louise Jones (Charles) of Clinton Maryland; Mitchell “Mickey” Staples of Victoria, and Gracie Chase (Alvin) of Whitsett, North Carolina. He leaves to mourn 18 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, 25 nieces and nephews and a host of cousins and lots of friends.

Those special friends who impacted his life the most were Ethel Howell, Ronnie Williams, James Jackson and Larry Vanderpool (Junior). His best buddy, Sylvania Hack stood by him through thick and thin. He has truly been a “God send” to Jasper during his illness. He was right there beside him through it all.

Jasper led a good life, and tried his best to conquer good during his time. He would want all that knew him and loved him to celebrate his life and accomplishments during this time. He would want you to remember the joy with which he lived his life, and have peace by cherishing the memories.

A service was held May 15, 2017 at The People’s Community Center, Victoria.

S.P. Jones & Son Funeral Home, Kenbridge, served the family.