About Jacob

Jacob Alan Crabtree was born on March 11, 2002 in Owensboro. Jacob graduated with honors from Daviess County High School and was a sophomore at Brescia University, studying to become a physical therapist. He passed away in a car accident on November 12, 2021.

Growing up on a farm taught Jacob the value of hard work, which he transferred to his academic and athletic careers in high school and college. He played baseball at Daviess County High School, as an outfielder, for six years and ran with the Cross Country team for three. Though he was known to be a fierce competitor, Jacob most valued the brotherhood and relationships found as a part of a team. He loved spending time with his teammates and was grateful for the opportunity to experience baseball at a collegiate level. The foundation for his love of the game began at Utica Elementary, playing with childhood friends from the time he was 5 years old. He made many life-long friends playing in the summer, fall, and all-star leagues.

When he wasn’t working on the farm or practicing baseball, Jacob studied for his classes, played video games, mowed yards for his customers, or spent time with family. He played hours of wiffle ball in the backyard of his grandparents’ home and endless games of basketball at his dad’s house, happily surrounded by family and friends ranging from four-year-olds to forty-year-olds. Somehow he even convinced his classmates to help haul hay and work in tobacco, showing them a glimpse into the daily life of a farmer.

Known for his vibrant smile and kind heart, Jacob was a friend to all. His deep-rooted faith was the source of his steady light that impacted those around him. Jacob’s kind nature, humble demeanor, and dry sense of humor made him an approachable teammate, classmate, and friend. He was well-loved and in return, loved deeply.

We are grateful to celebrate Jacob by awarding this scholarship, made possible by the generosity of donors who wished to honor our beautiful son.