Former state director Larry Swope passes

Larry Swope of Amity, Missouri, died November 26, 2025. He was 87.

An Army veteran, Larry owned a large farm in Missouri where he ran a dairy and, later, raised beef cattle. An avid horseman since childhood, Larry always kept horses and enjoyed riding with his family. He had six children with wife Maxine.

An active APHA member, Larry was involved with Paint Horses in Missouri and on the national stage. He served as an APHA state director from 1969–1980 and was involved on the Amateur, Youth, Judges and Regional Club advisory committees. Larry became an APHA judge in 1974; he judged 82 shows for the association before retiring in 1999.

Survivors include Maxine; children Denny, Danny, Jeanne, Larry, Julie and Marty and their spouses; 11 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; one step-great-granddaughter; sister Pat; and other extended family. APHA extends our condolences.

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The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s second-largest international equine breed association. Since it was founded in 1962, APHA has registered more than a million horses in 59 nations and territories. APHA promotes, preserves and provides meaningful experiences with Paint Horses. Learn more at apha.com.