James David Trosper, age 55, of Independence, KY, passed away unexpectedly at his home, on Saturday, June 7, 2025, leaving behind a legacy marked by passion, discipline, and heartfelt dedication to his family, students, and players.

Born and raised in Northern Kentucky, David graduated from Boone County High School in 1988, where he excelled as an all-state linebacker on two state runner-up teams. He continued his academic and athletic journey at Union College in Barbourville, KY, where he was an all-Mid-South linebacker for the Union Bulldogs. Known for his fierce play and leadership on the field, one of his most memorable achievements was recording 19 tackles in a single game, an enduring record and testament to his drive.

Since 2007, David served as a beloved Business Teacher and Head Football Coach at Conner High School. Through his years of coaching, he earned numerous awards and was honored to be selected twice to coach in the prestigious Kentucky-Tennessee Border Bowl All-Star Game. To his players and colleagues, David was more than a coach; he was a life coach, a mentor, and a man of unmatched energy and loyalty. His one-of-a-kind personality, marked by intensity, humor, and genuine care, left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Off the field, David found joy in life’s simple pleasures. Working in the yard, enjoying a round of golf, and relaxing on the couch with a notebook in hand, jotting down all of his ideas. In one of his final notebook entries, David wrote: “I called Conner High School my home for 18 years, I never had any regrets.”

David will be deeply missed by his wife of 10 years, Ginny Trosper; his children who are each affectionately known by special nicknames - Morgan “Morg,” Grace “Franny,” and Christen “Nah”; brother Kyle (Rachael) Trosper; aunt Donna Trosper; and his beloved nieces and nephews Levi, Liza, Katie-Beth, James, and John-David. He was preceded in death by his parents Ted Trosper and Karen May {Hicks}, as well as his uncle Jim Trosper, and his dog Rosko.

A visitation will be held between 10 AM and 2 PM with a Celebration of Life to be held at 2 PM on Friday, June 13th at Conner High School’s Fred Nevel Football Stadium, weather permitting. Everyone is encouraged to wear their Conner Cougar’s gear (red, white, and blue)! A private committal service will be held after David's service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Trosper family to help cover funeral costs and other expenses related to David’s unexpected passing by clicking here. For directions, to share an online condolence with the family, or to view David’s life tribute video please visit the corresponding tabs on this page.