Lee Goynes

Lee Goynes was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend to all who knew him. To know him was to love him. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and give an encouraging work. Lee and his wife, Ione, were successful dairy farmers in Pine Grove, LA for many years and they were awarded Dairymen of the Year in 1973.

In the rodeo world, Lee competed in bull riding and steer wrestling. Lee was a member of several rodeo associations including Louisiana Rodeo Association (LRA) and Tri-State Rodeo Association (TSRA), even serving as president of the TSRA. Being a strong competitor helped Lee win lots of awards including at least 10 saddles, numerous buckles and many other awards. Because of his generosity, Lee gave away many of his awards to help and encourage many aspiring rodeo champions that he mentored. In 1964 Lee won the very first All Around Saddle ever awarded in the LRA. He was honored with a lifetime membership in the TSRA and was inducted into the Louisiana Rodeo Cowboy Association (LRCA) Hall of Fame in 2002.

Lee joined the cutting world after retiring from rodeo. He won Reserve Champion Non-Pro in the Louisiana Cutting Horse Association (LCHA) in 1993). Lee was inducted into the NCHA Hall of Fame in 1996.

Later in life he fought a long battle with cancer but continued to ride, train, and help others until the time of his death. They sure don’t make cowboys like Lee Goynes anymore. He was a True Cowboy.