Longtime bloodstock agent and equine consultant Harley Clemons died Nov. 30 in Central Kentucky. He was 82.
The nephew of Hall of Fame trainer Woody Stephens, Clemons was predeceased by his parents Harley W. and Lillie Stephens Clemons. He is survived by his wife and best friend, Pamela Spies Clemons, daughter Andrea Clemons, stepchildren Chris Howard, Ashley (Andy) Petry, Peter (Kristi) Howard, and six grandchildren.
Born in Lexington on June 6, 1940, Harley loved Lexington and spent most of his life in the "Horse Capital of the World," with the longest time away at one time totaling 29 days, according to his family.
"He loved ferociously, and his heart was huge. He could fill a room with his stories, his love, his heart, and his laughter," said Petry.
Harley graduated from Lafayette High School, where he was a great baseball player, and later attended the University of Kentucky. There, his passion grew for UK sports and Thoroughbred horse racing.
From the age of 12, he was mentored by Stephens, and in adulthood, Clemons pursued a career as a Thoroughbred consultant, active at the racetrack and in sales. He consulted on the purchase and racing careers of many great horses, including Devil's Bag and the great sire Gone West. Over his 19-year tenure at Gainsborough Farm, he guided the careers of many stakes winners, among them Soviet Line.
Clemons was a member of the Keeneland Club and Thoroughbred Club of America, a Kentucky Colonel, and a UK Fellow. He felt fortunate to know many great people in Lexington and throughout the Thoroughbred industry, many of whom were entertained by his engaging stories.
Through his work, he traveled to many places and met many people, and later in life, was surrounded by pictures of a lifetime of memories from his love of horses and life with Pam and the many people with whom he interacted. His family said Clemons led a life focused on his love of God.
Two phrases Clemons was known to say were, "You are doing something important if you can help a child," and "Keep the main thing the main thing (God)."
Petry further praised Clemons for the love he had for her mother, Pamela.
Clemons' family expressed their gratitude to those who took care of him, especially Dr. James Crager, the staff of Sayre Christian Village, Bluegrass Navigators, caring friend Tricia Benavente, and caregiver Ashley Gates.
In lieu of flowers, the Clemons' family requests contributions to children's organizations, Shriners Children Hospital, and Hospice of the Bluegrass (Bluegrass Care Navigators).
A visitation will take place Dec. 6 at 12 p.m. ET at Kerr Brothers Funeral Home in Lexington at 3421 Harrodsburg Road. A service will take place at 2 p.m. with refreshments to follow.
