Lifelong Paint Horse supporter and APHA Past President J. Jay Simons of Weston, Florida, died May 19, 2024. He was 101.
Jay and wife Nancy entered the Paint Horse business in 1966 with the purchase of J Bar Desperado, an early-day APHA Champion. The Simons’ children—Andrea, Joe and Daniel—showed mounts like Billy Joe Dun and C-Note’s Rosalita, among others, to a multitude of national championships and year-end titles. C-Notes Rosalita produced Jetalito, a top-tier sire who further cemented the family’s APHA legacy.
In addition to being dedicated Paint promoters, horse breeders and horse-show parents, Jay and Nancy dutifully supported APHA as well. A state director and committee member, Jay served as APHA president in 1978. He and Nancy were included as part of the inaugural APHA Hall of Fame class in 2012, inducted as part of APHA’s 50th anniversary celebration.
Jay grew up in Boston, but spent most of his adult life in Florida; he and Nancy were married for 70 years. A former World War II aircraft mechanic, Jay became a lawyer in 1950 and was still a practicing member of the Florida Bar Association. APHA extends our condolences to the Simons’ family and friends.
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About APHA
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.