The Germantown Charity Horse Show lost one of its most loyal supporters on Wednesday, Oct. 11, when Executive Secretary Bess Barry passed away at the age of 79. Ms. Barry was a lifelong resident of Germantown, attended the very first horse show and soon became its secretary, a position she held until 10 years ago. She remained on board as an honorary Executive Secretary until her passing.

            “When people are talking about the Germantown Charity Horse Show, they are talking about Bess Barry,” says GCHS Executive Director Bobby Lanier. “Everyone depended on Ms. Barry for whatever it was that had to do with the horse show. She made every president look good!”

            President Bill McGaughey concurs saying that Ms. Barry’s involvement with the horse show for over 50 years has brought stability and familiarity to the exhibitors and volunteers. “Her tireless involvement as secretary reflected her spirit of cooperation, and her background as a banker was a tremendous asset to the show, making the horse show a great success over the years,” he says. “The Germantown Charity Horse Show as well as the City of Germantown has lost a very valuable person in Ms. Barry.”

            Ms. Barry is survived by her sister, Genetta Roast of Germantown. The family requests memorial contributions to be sent to Germantown Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of Counce, Tenn., or the Germantown Charity Horse Show.