William Asbury Rooker was born to Jesse S. and Candace L. (Conduitt) Rooker. His education was limited, but experience is sometimes the better teacher. At just 12 years of age, he was hired by a dry goods house as a clerk and was employed there for about a decade. In 1837, he was elected Treasurer of Morgan County and remained as Treasurer until his death.

He married Susan Rusie on December 26, 1839. She was the daughter of Michael and Catherine (House) Rusie, originally of Germany, but by then residents of Mooresville. Susan and William had four children: Thomas, Candace, Mary and Wallace.

In 1843 after William's father died, he purchased his parent's home, which was a 200 acre farm. This he left to his wife and his three living children (Wallace was deceased) upon his death 6 years later.

He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and was a Master Mason. He was well-respected in the community.

He died at age 30 years, 6 months and 9 days. How much more could he have accomplished if he'd only had a full life to live! 35