Hargus Sexton Passes Away

Hargus Sexton

Prominent Central Kentucky Thoroughbred breeder Hargus Sexton died June 15 at his farm in Versailles at the age of 96. Sexton, who grew up working on dairy and poultry farms, entered the racing industry as a mutuels clerk at Keeneland and Churchill Downs before ultimately owning a farm of his own.

Well-acquainted with various forms of agriculture in the region, Sexton grew a reputation as “Mr. Tobacco” through his work alongside Julian Walden with their successful United Tobacco Warehouse venture. After marrying his wife, Sandra, in 1987, Sexton became active in breeding racehorses–many of which came in partnership with Walden's grandson, Ben Walden, Jr. Hargus and Sandra Sexton's greatest successes as breeders included GI/1SWs Corinthian (Pulpit), Capo Bastone (Street Boss), Gayego (Gilded Time) and Crustaceo (Royal Anthem), GSW Mo Tom (Uncle Mo), MGSW & MGISP The Medic and MGSP Morris Code.

“He was a very loyal person,” said Kitty Taylor of Warrendale Sales, who added that Sexton's support was essential to the growth and sustenance of their sales business. “He raised a lot of really good horses. He was an old Kentucky hardboot–he did it with hay, oats and cracked corn. He kept them outside and treated them like horses, and they thrived. He was self-made, and was a very good businessman.”

Sexton is survived by his wife, Sandra; daughters Bonnie (Richard) Thompson, and Fawn Marks; grandchildren Bill (Renee) Casson, Bobbie ( Justin) Collins, Bonnie (Justin) Collins, Bonnie Mize, Kimberly (Tony) Gardner, Robin (Rod) McMahan, Shane (Susan) Farley, Chance (Sharon) Farley, Celene (Bill) Marshall, Mark (Esther) Thompson, Richard (Carol) Thompson, Japeth (Neta) McKinney, Jimathea (Jay) Kirkman, Jaman McKinney, Bryce Marks, as well as 31 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.

“He was a character, and he will be missed,” Taylor added.

A celebration of Sexton's life will be held Wednesday, June 21 at 6:00 p.m. at Moss Hill Golf Course in Versailles. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Central Kentucky Riding for Hope or Old Friends Farm.

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