Kenneth Galyean, a man bigger than life, honest to his core, and who loved family above all, passed away on September 9, 2025, leaving behind a legacy built not only on his own integrity and horsemanship, but also on the generations that followed in his footsteps. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy.

While the world knew Kenneth as a respected horseman, AQHA judge (including at the first AQHA World Championship Show), and a 2014 inductee into the NCHA Members Hall of Fame, those who knew him best saw him as the heart of his family.

Family was his greatest pride and joy—the foundation of everything he did. Kenneth's life was a testament to the values he held dear—strength, courage, honesty, and unwavering devotion to family.

His guiding hand shaped not only the sport of cutting but also a remarkable dynasty within it. His sons, Jody and Gil, each went on to achieve great success and leave a lasting impact on the horse industry, carrying forward the foundation their father instilled in them. Kenneth was equally proud of his daughter Shannon and her success in the business world, a reflection of the same drive, character, and determination he valued most.

Kenneth's grandchildren have carried the Galyean name with equal passion and distinction. Beau and Wesley Galyean both earned induction into the NCHA Rider Hall of Fame and each won the coveted NCHA Open Futurity Championship, while their sister Christina Cox captured the NCHA Non-Pro Futurity Championship. Together with their father Jody—also an NCHA Futurity Champion—the family represents a rare legacy of four Futurity champions across two generations.

But Kenneth's proudest accomplishments were not measured in trophies or accolades. They were found in the family he guided, encouraged, and stood behind every step of the way. He found his greatest joy in watching his sons, daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in the show pen and in life—all of whom have become highly accomplished in their own right. He also loved following them in their sports and activities beyond the horse arena. Kenneth never ceased to share his honest wisdom, knowledge, and sound advice in all areas of life, leaving an imprint on each new generation. His great-grandchildren—Daxton and RiverGalyean, Leighton, Ledger, and Levin Cox, Aislynn and Gracelyn Galyean—brought him endless happiness and hope for the future.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy Galyean; his children, Jody Galyean and wife, Bridget, Gil Galyean and wife, Becky, and Shannon Brewer and husband, Charles; as well as Jody's former wife, Debbie Galyean; his grandchildren, Beau Galyean and wife, Ashley, Wesley Galyean and wife, Kristen, Christina Cox and husband, Lloyd, Brady Brewer, Garrett Galyean, and Brody Galyean; his great-grandchildren, Daxton Galyean, River Galyean, Leighton Cox, Ledger Cox, Levin Cox, Aislynn Galyean, and Gracelyn Galyean.

Kenneth Galyean leaves behind a family who adored him, a community who admired him, and a sport forever shaped by his influence. His life was a testament to honesty, leadership, and above all—love of family. His legacy will live on in every life he touched.

"Kenneth Galyean: A pillar of integrity, a champion horseman, and above all— a family man whose legacy shines in every generation."

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Bella Vista Funeral Home, 2258 Forest Hills Blvd., Bella Vista, AR 72715. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 2:00pm at Bella Vista Funeral Home, followed by burial at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bella Vista Funeral Home and Crematory. Online condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.