Roger Kay Beasley, a pioneering Texas automobile dealer, entrepreneur and philanthropist, passed away peacefully at his home in Austin, Texas, on August 28, 2026. He was 87 years old. Born on November 13, 1938, Beasley leaves behind a legacy built through business leadership, philanthropy, family and decades of service to his community and The University of Texas at Austin.
Beasley was widely respected for his integrity, generosity and commitment to the people around him. His professional career eventually led him to establish what became the Roger Beasley Auto Group, beginning in 1972 with a single franchise and three employees. Over the following four decades, the organization grew into one of Texas’ prominent automotive businesses, expanding to 13 franchises and 11 dealerships with more than 600 employees.
His accomplishments in the automotive industry earned national recognition. Under his leadership, his dealerships became known for customer satisfaction, operational excellence and strong management. In 2001, Ford Motor Company named Beasley among its Top 100 Dealers Worldwide, one of the professional honors he was particularly proud of.
Beasley’s influence extended beyond his own business. He served as Vice President of the Texas Automobile Dealers Association and was a member of the Board of Directors of JPMorgan Chase. He also participated on dealer advisory councils for American Motors, Mazda and Saab. His career was characterized by leadership, sound judgment and a commitment to the automotive industry.
Education and The University of Texas at Austin held a special place in Beasley’s life. A lifelong supporter of the university and its athletic programs, he provided vehicles to UT Athletics for more than four decades and supported Longhorn student-athletes.
His commitment to education also extended through scholarships. Beasley established the Alma Beatrice and Finley Floyd Beasley Endowed Scholarship in honor of his parents, creating opportunities for graduates of Llano High School to attend the University of Texas. In 2024, he and his family established the Tamra Kay Beasley Endowed Nursing Scholarship at the UT School of Nursing in memory of his daughter.
Beasley was also committed to giving back to Central Texas. He quietly supported numerous civic and charitable organizations, preferring to focus on the impact of his contributions rather than recognition.
Outside his professional life, Beasley enjoyed running, skiing, horse racing, whitewater rafting and fishing. He valued competition, adventure and time spent outdoors.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Tamra Kay Beasley. He is survived by his wife, Karen Pospisil; grandchildren Carson and Kaylee Bashaw and Avery and Keith Bon; and great-granddaughters Iris Bashaw and Finley Bon.
A funeral service is scheduled for Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Cook-Walden Funeral Home, 6100 North Lamar, Austin, Texas.
Roger Beasley’s legacy will live through the employees he supported, students whose education he helped advance, charitable causes he contributed to and the many people who knew him. His life demonstrated a commitment to building opportunities and helping others.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to a favorite charity in Roger’s memory.
About the Author
