Prominent equine veterinarian Dr. Bryan Boone died Dec. 31, 2025, after an 8 1/2-year battle with Alzheimer's disease. He was 62.
In 1997, Boone became a partner at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute (then Hagyard-Davidson-McGee), where he practiced reproductive equine medicine with great passion and dedication. He was deeply committed to his clients and their broodmares and was widely respected for his expertise, work ethic, and compassion.
Above all else, Boone loved his family, his work, and all animals. He will be remembered for his strength, loyalty, and the profound impact he had on those who knew and loved him.
Boone was born July 11, 1963, in Lexington to the late Lois Boone and Charles "C.M." Boone. He was a brother to Craig Boone. A graduate of Henry Clay High School, Class of 1981, he distinguished himself as a four-year letterman in wrestling. He continued his wrestling career at the University of Kentucky until the program was discontinued, after which he transferred to Oklahoma State University in 1983.
At Oklahoma State, Boone competed at a high level in wrestling, played pickup basketball with Barry Sanders, worked as a bouncer, and spent time at The Tumbleweed with then up-and-coming musician Garth Brooks. It was also during this time that he met the love of his life, Connie. Boone went on to earn his doctor of veterinary medicine degree from Oklahoma State University in 1989. He and Connie were married Oct. 26, 1991, in Lexington. Together they raised three children whom Bryan adored: Cameron, Caroline, and Charlie.
Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Jan. 5 at First United Methodist Church in Lexington and funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Jan. 6 at the same church. Interment will be at the Lexington Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested supporting the E.T. Hagyard Scholarship 1876 Legacy Scholarships which are managed by the AAEP Foundation. (d.b.a. The Foundation for the Horse). Tax ID #: 61-1259683.
