S.A. Baxter

S.A. Baxter, a third-generation rancher, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2024, surrounded by family in the comfort of his home, at the age of 93.  Born on May 15, 1931, on his family's ranch in Bend, Texas, S.A. lived a life dedicated to the land, livestock, and legacy that he so deeply cherished.

The youngest of three children, S.A. was preceded in death by his parents, Luther and Ora Baxter, and his sisters, LaFayne Porter and Iva Landers.  His journey in ranching began early, trading for his first milk pen heifer at just 4 years old, a passion that would grow into a lifelong pursuit.  Over 80 years later, the Baxter Ranch crew continues to work cattle on horseback, a testament to the traditions he upheld and nurtured.  S.A. attended John Tarleton's Agricultural College in Stephenville, Texas, before serving his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1952 to 1954.

S.A. married Kathy, and together, they built a loving and blended family.  He is survived by three sons, Randy and his wife Donna Baxter of San Saba, TX, Stephen and his wife Sally Baxter of Bend, TX, and Beau Wilson of Lampasas, TX.  Though their children came from earlier chapters in their lives, S.A. and Kathy found unity in their shared family.  Together, they celebrated the joys of six grandchildren, Laura Terry, Dana Homeyer, Shane Baxter, Savannah McCoury, Keely Wilson, and Bryli Wilson, and nine great-grandchildren, each a source of pride and joy for S.A.

S.A.'s passion for ranching extended beyond cattle to Quarter Horses, a pursuit he began in 1958 with the purchase of his first horse, Paul Bee, at a Pinehurst Stables sale.  S.A. was also instrumental in shaping the regional equine world, serving as one of the founding directors of the Central Texas Cutting Horse Association in 1960 and acting as its President through 1972.  He also presided over the Alamo Quarter Horse Breeders Association for five years.

Reflecting on his life, S.A. once said: "I have always liked horses and cattle, and I have never had a real paying job.  I worked on some of the other ranches growing up, and to raise and have a better ranch horse is all I wanted.  Quarter Horses have always been good to me.  The best experience is seeing my family riding the horses raised and started on the ranch and working cattle here on the ranch.  There is no better feeling than to ride a good, young horse that you raised and started, on a good spring day."

S.A. Baxter's life was a legacy of resilience, hard work, and a deep appreciation for family, tradition, and the beauty of ranching.  He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his craft, his love for the land and animals, and the enduring lessons he imparted to those fortunate enough to know him.

A service will be held at Lampasas Bible Church to honor S.A.'s incredible life and contributions on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at 11 am with a visitation an hour prior.  Burial will follow at Bend Sand Hill Cemetery in Bend, TX.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Bend Sand Hill Cemetery and Lampasas Bible Church.