Darrell Brown, who owned and operated Stonereath Farm in Bourbon County, Kentucky, for four decades, has passed away. He was to turn 88 years old next month.
Born Dec. 14, 1934, to Joseph and Ona Brown in Oklahoma City, Brown grew up during the Oklahoma dust bowl and attended school in a one-room schoolhouse in Mustang, Oklahoma, before proceeding to public school and the University of Oklahoma. He flew in the Air Force during the Vietnam War, delivering helicopter blades to Da Nang and also transporting caskets back to the U.S.
Following the war, Brown became the head accountant for Kerr McGee Oil Co., but remained in the Guard and was eventually hired by Aero Commander as test pilot and sales rep. His skills led him to demonstrate a plane to legendary golfer Arnold Palmer, while led to being hired as Palmer's personal pilot and personal manager.
A skilled sportsman, Brown achieved much success, particularly at golf, where he made the cut every time he competed in the AT&T/Bing Crosby Pro-Am tournament at Pebble Beach, California. He also played polo with victories in the U.S. and against the Guards Polo in England. He was an excellent shot in the dove fields of Kentucky accompanied by his dog Birdie and took numerous European bike trips with his wife and enjoyed his cycling and European adventures.
Stonereath co-owner Broodmare of the Year Best In Show and many stakes winners, including GI Kentucky Oaks winner Blush With Pride. He was on the board of Kentucky Bank, Breeders' Cup and was President of the Kentucky Thoroughbred Association from 1984-1988, its Vice President from 1981-1984 and was one of the founders of the organization. Brown believed that the owners and breeders of Thoroughbreds should have a strong voice in the development of the Thoroughbred business and its decisions. Two of his early principles were the development of a modern simulcasting program for Kentucky and the designation of the pari-mutuel tax to purses for improvement and growth of racing. Darrell was known for his integrity and honesty and advocated for what was good for the industry and for horsemen. These two programs are still the cornerstones of racing today.
Brown is survived by his son Jay Brown (Darice), Dr. Joel Brown and Jamie Brown and one granddaughter, Darrelyn Leebov. A celebration of live will be held at a later date.
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