It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Dr. Bryan Boone, a lifelong resident of Lexington, Kentucky, who departed peacefully on December 31, 2025, at the age of 62 after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born on July 11, 1963, in the heart of the Bluegrass, Bryan grew up surrounded by the equine traditions that define Lexington and its countryside, shaping a passion that would guide his life’s work.
From his earliest years, Bryan was captivated by horses, spending time on local farms and attending events at Keeneland, where the elegance and strength of these animals left a lasting impression. This childhood immersion laid the foundation for a career devoted to equine health, blending personal love with professional purpose in a community that holds horse care in the highest regard.
After completing his undergraduate studies, Bryan pursued a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, specializing in equine medicine to serve the animals that had always inspired him. Returning to Lexington, he established his practice and became a trusted figure among thoroughbred owners, trainers, and breeders. For decades, Dr. Boone provided expert care across all stages of equine life, from newborn foals to seasoned racehorses, earning admiration for both his skill and his compassion.
Colleagues praised his diagnostic insight, surgical precision, and innovative treatments, but what distinguished him most was the empathy he brought to every case. He recognized that horses could not speak for themselves, so he listened closely to their subtle cues and treated each with dignity and gentleness. This union of technical excellence and heartfelt care secured his place as a respected leader in Kentucky’s equine industry.
Bryan’s influence extended beyond his practice into mentorship and education. He guided young veterinarians with patience and clarity, participated in continuing education programs, and collaborated with peers to advance equine medicine. His commitment to lifelong learning and his willingness to share knowledge reflected a deep responsibility to the profession, setting standards that continue to shape veterinary practice today.
Outside of work, Bryan cherished the simple joys of family life and the beauty of Kentucky’s rolling hills. He lived modestly, finding fulfillment in quiet evenings, weekend rides, and the seasonal rhythms of the Bluegrass. His appreciation for nature was inseparable from his respect for animals, viewing each horse not merely as a patient but as a living being worthy of kindness.
The progression of Alzheimer’s tested Bryan’s resilience, yet he faced the illness with the same dignity and courage that defined his life. Surrounded by the love of his family, he found strength and comfort even as the disease advanced. His passing on the final day of 2025 marked the close of a journey characterized by service, devotion, and quiet heroism.
A visitation will be held on January 5, 2026, followed by a funeral service on January 6 at First United Methodist Church in Lexington. Family, friends, colleagues, and members of the equine community will gather to honor a man whose life was dedicated to healing, teaching, and caring. Dr. Bryan Boone’s gentle strength and generous heart leave an indelible legacy in the Bluegrass State, remembered with immense respect and affection.