The rodeo world is reeling from an unimaginable loss. Kelsie Domer, a ten-time Women’s Professional Rodeo Association world champion, is grieving the death of her three-year-old daughter, Oaklynn, following a heartbreaking accident.
Oaklynn’s brief life was filled with the vibrant energy of the rodeo circuit. She traveled across the country with her parents, Kelsie and Ryan Domer, soaking in the atmosphere and finding joy in the simple pleasures of family and animals.
Those who knew Oaklynn remember a fearless spirit and an infectious zest for life. She loved frogs, horses, and every puppy she met, radiating warmth and instantly brightening any room she entered.
The tragedy unfolded on February 19th. Kelsie was holding Oaklynn while leading a horse when the animal unexpectedly suffered a medical episode and fell, resulting in devastating injuries.
Despite Kelsie’s survival and immediate, life-saving efforts, young Oaklynn succumbed to her injuries. The accident has been described as a shocking and improbable event within the close-knit rodeo community.
In the wake of this profound loss, an outpouring of support has enveloped the Domer family. The rodeo world is united in grief, offering condolences and remembrance.
Kelsie has shared a way for others to honor Oaklynn’s memory with pink memorial caps, and has reposted heartfelt tributes from friends and colleagues. Ryan has also shared messages of remembrance.
A funeral service for Oaklynn was held on February 26th in Dublin, Texas, followed by a graveside service on February 27th in Cherokee, Oklahoma.
Simply Equine & K9, a company Kelsie has worked with for years, expressed their devastation in a moving online tribute, sharing a montage of Oaklynn’s joyful moments with family and animals.
The rodeo community’s tribute extended beyond words. Riders honored Oaklynn by placing pink flowers in their saddles, a poignant symbol of remembrance for the “toughest little cowgirl.”
Breakaway roper Haley Sage Wright and many others joined the chorus of grief, sharing messages of love and support, and honoring Oaklynn’s vibrant spirit with pink, a color now synonymous with her memory.
