Obituary – Russell Walker Keyser
Wednesday, October 7, 2026

Russell Walker Keyser, age 59 of Tullahoma, passed away on October 6, 2026, at Manchester Center for Rehabilitation and Healing. He was born in Hamilton, Montana, on July 8, 1967, to the late Robert William and Joan (Cassista) Keyser Sr. A true lifelong horseman, Russ’s love for horses began as a child showing walkers in Montana. As he grew older, he began working with horses, exhibiting love and believing in the ability of each of the horses he was honored to train. During his lifelong career in Tennessee Walking Horses, his work spanned from starting colts, training horses, and judging major shows such as the International and SSHBEA World Championship. His legacy will continue through the horses he touched as well as his many friends throughout the industry. In his spare time, Russ enjoyed going to the movies, singing karaoke, and cheering on his favorite teams, the Seattle Seahawks and Kansas City Chiefs. He knew the Lord and attended Mt. Caramel Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Russ is survived by his significant other, Rita Poe Colbert; siblings, Jan Keyser, Robert Keyser Jr, Dan Keyser, Laura Pitts, and Kim Darling; and children, JoAnn Keyser, Jason Colbert, and Jeremy Colbert; grandchildren, Alyssa Colbert and Bella Colbert; and fur children, Cole and Vanna. Visitation will be from 4-6pm on Monday, October 12, 2026, at Moore-Cortner Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow at 6:00 pm from the Chapel of Moore-Cortner Funeral Home with Sister Caroline Farmer-Liles officiating. Moore-Cortner Funeral Home, 300 First Ave NW, Winchester, TN 37398
More Stories |
-
Fans who can’t make it to the North Carolina Championships can still catch all the action live! The livestream will be available on a pay-per-view basis through Dean Johnson at WatchTheShowLive.com.
Read More
-
The Walking Horse Report has learned of the passing of Trainer Jerry Woodlee.
Read More
-
Russell Walker Keyser, age 59 of Tullahoma, passed away on October 6, 2026, at Manchester Center for Rehabilitation and Healing.
Read More
-
ThorSport Versatility Cup is a new award program designed to recognize competitors who demonstrate excellence across multiple performance disciplines. This program encourages competitors to broaden their participation, enhance their horsemanship and showmanship skills, and pursue success across a variety of classes.
Read More
-
WASHINGTON — Humane World for Animals has narrowed its lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Agriculture following a Texas federal court ruling that struck down three disputed horse protection regulations. The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Association, meanwhile, is seeking to intervene to protect its interests in the remaining dispute over USDA’s delayed implementation of a new inspection system.
Read More
-
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has selected Chad Adams, Mike Hilley and Jamie Lawrence to judge its Fall Classic. The Fall Classic will be held inside Cooper Steel Arena November 5-7.
Read More
-
ReporTV will be live from the RHBAA World Celebration on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, continuing the same broadcast schedule that has been in place for years. We apologize for any confusion and look forward to bringing you three nights of live coverage!
Read More
-
The White County Open to the World Walking Show has been postponed due to conditions following recent weather. Show officials will announce a new date as soon as it becomes available. Additional information will be shared once plans are finalized.
Read More
-
Read More
-
Sweet Walking Matilda, beloved three-time World Grand Champion and six-time World Champion, was humanely laid to rest on September 29, 2026. Sired by Jose’ Jose’, Matilda leaves behind a remarkable show-ring legacy and a lasting place in the hearts of those who had the privilege of loving her.
Read More
|