
The 61st Brown County Rodeo Grand Marshal is noted to be no other than Gary Worley
Gary Worley’s deep-rooted connection with the Brown County Fair Association began in 1967, when he was a freshman in high school. He launched his stock show career that year by showing lambs with the FFA, quickly immersing himself in all aspects of the agricultural community. That same summer, Gary and a group of fellow ag students assisted their teacher, Gerald Thomas, in moving entertainer Ray Price’s stage into the arena and later to the coliseum—a memory that marked the beginning of his decades-long commitment.
Throughout high school, Gary continued to show lambs and pigs, and often helped friends with their steers. He also participated in livestock judging teams, showcasing his leadership and agricultural knowledge. His dedication carried into college, where he and another student were recruited to coordinate the livestock judging contest held in conjunction with the Youth Fair.
As an adult, Gary’s involvement deepened when Wilma Lemmons encouraged him to run for the Board of Directors. Once elected, he served in numerous roles, including positions on the Youth Fair and Rodeo Steering Committees—both of which he chaired at various times. His leadership culminated in serving as Board President during the early and mid-1990s. For many years, he also contributed significantly to the Youth Fair Finance Committee, helping to raise vital funds in support of Brown County youth.
Spanning over four decades—from 1967 to 2010—Gary Worley’s commitment to the Brown County Fair Association has left a lasting legacy. His service, mentorship, and tireless efforts to support local youth have earned him the honor of serving as Grand Marshal, a role that celebrates a lifetime of dedication to his community.
The parade will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 7, while the rodeo runs Thursday, June 5 through Saturday, June 7 at 7 p.m. each night at the Brown County Fairgrounds.