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Grady Green reflects on his year as IBBA president, a term marked by leadership, collaboration, and service to the breed. From guiding committees and advancing genetic programs to mentoring the next generation, Green emphasizes putting the breed first and leading with perspective, leaving the association stronger and well-positioned for continued growth in the future of the Brangus breed.
Ta season of change & opportunity
BY RICK COZZITORTO, IBBA EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
he month of March always brings change — and in my opinion, it is the best kind of change. Spring arrives, the grass begins to turn green, and there is nothing better than driving through the countryside and seeing new calves at their mothers’ sides. It’s a season of renewal, optimism, and fresh starts.
Melissa and I were recently reminded just how important those fresh starts — and the seasons of life — truly are. We had the opportunity to attend the funeral of Don Cox, whom many consider a legend in the Brangus breed. I had only known Don for 18 months through committee work and industry events, but in that short time, I came to appreciate what a genuinely kind man he was and how deeply he loved agriculture.
What struck me most during the standing-room-only service was not a discussion of cattle, awards, or accomplishments within the breed. Instead, the focus was exactly where it should have been. They began with his faith. They spoke about his devotion to his family. They honored his service to his community. Those were the themes that filled the room and defined his legacy. It was truly a
celebration of a life lived to the fullest.
If we are honest, those are the things we would all hope would be said about us one day. Our work in this industry is important, but it is our faith, our families, and our service to others that ultimately define us.
March is also an important time for our association. Our annual meeting in Houston marks a transition point for the International Brangus Breeders Association. We welcome new board members, say goodbye to those who have faithfully served, and appoint committees that will help guide our organization over the next year. I am continually grateful for the men and women who step forward to lead and serve our membership.
Thursday, March 5 will be a packed and productive day in Houston. All events will take place at the host hotel, creating a convenient, one-stop experience for our members. From meetings to fellowship, it will be a full day of engagement and forward-thinking discussions about the future of our breed and the day will conclude with the National Brangus Sale at 7:30 p.m. For those who are unable to attend in person, we will be livestreaming the events on Facebook so everyone has the
opportunity to stay connected.
Friday and Saturday will showcase some of the very best cattle in the country. The show ring will be full of excitement as international champions are selected. These are the moments that highlight the strength, progress, and quality of the Brangus breed. You will not want to miss the competition, camaraderie, and pride that come with these show days.
Looking ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be an exceptional year for the cattle industry. Many analysts are predicting $6 calves, and we are positioned to see record-setting prices for the third consecutive year. Strong markets combined with the proven value of the Brangus cow create tremendous opportunities for our members.
Spring represents growth — in our pastures, in our herds, and in our organization. It also reminds us to keep our priorities in order to pursue success. I look forward to seeing many of you in Houston as we celebrate our successes and continue building momentum for the future of the Brangus breed.
By: Taylor Gazda
Photo
College Station, Texas
With a Clear Conscience
Grady Green reflects on a year of leadership, decisions, and putting the breed first.
BY BRILEY RICHARD, IBBA DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
The room sat quiet in the way it only gets when a decision carries weight. Board members gathered around the table, knowing their vote shapes the direction of the breed for years to come. For Grady Green, moments like that defined his year as president of the International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA). Not the recognition, not the title, but the responsibility.
Leadership, he believes, comes down to doing what serves the breed best, even when the path forward requires change.
As he concludes his board tenure, Green points first to the collective progress made across the association’s committees. Much of the year’s advancement happened through those groups, where volunteers and industry leaders focused on projects ranging from genetic evaluation to marketing outreach.
“The thing I’m the proudest of is the work accomplished through our committees,” he said. “I have a great group of committee chairs to thank for that.”
The Breed Improvement committees’ efforts remained central. Meetings centered on strengthening the Brangus Value Project, expanding research tied to red meat yield, advancing large-scale data initiatives, and improving the use of artificial insemination and embryo transfer across member programs. At the same time, promotional campaigns worked to expand awareness of Brangus cattle beyond traditional audiences, while commercial marketing efforts continued pushing Brangus Vigor programs into the broader beef industry.
Membership and education initiatives focused on bringing new breeders into the association and supporting those already involved. Financial oversight and long-range planning committees worked to maintain stability while positioning the organization for future growth. For Green, this coordinated effort across multiple areas reflected the strength of the membership itself.
One milestone stood apart from the rest. The sale of
the IBBA headquarters building in San Antonio and the transition to College Station marked a significant shift for the organization.
“That’s one that is the most memorable and that I think will benefit the membership greatly,” Green said.
The move represented more than a change in address. It signaled an effort to align the association with resources, partnerships, and opportunities which support long-term progress. Decisions like this often come with scrutiny, but Green approached them with a focus on what would serve breeders over time.
Challenges also surfaced early in his presidency. Staff transitions required restructuring and adjustment, creating uncertainty before the organization settled into its current operational footing.
“The biggest challenges that we all had to navigate were some of the staff changes early in my presidency,” he said. “This led to some restructuring and paved the way for the current setup and team that Rick has in place at the association now.
Moments like this reinforced something he already believed. Leadership requires perspective.
“It’s taught me to see issues and challenges from other perspectives, not just my own,” Green said.
This outlook has roots in his own background. Raised on large commercial and registered Brangus operations in Texas and Arkansas, Green became exposed early to the realities of beef production. Before school mornings often included helping with embryo transfer work, while afternoons meant assisting with bull development and herd management. Those experiences built an understanding of how genetics, management, and marketing connect in a successful program.
After high school, Green worked in several operations to expand his skills, including time training cutting horses. He later attended the ranch management program at Texas Christian University, where financial analysis and decision making became daily practice. He joined Draggin’ M Ranch immediately upon graduation and has since helped grow it into one
of the largest Brangus herds in the country, known for aggressive donor selection and genetic advancement.
That combination of practical experience and strategic thinking shaped his approach to IBBA leadership. Still, he remains focused on the people within the organization more than any single accomplishment.
One of the developments he finds most encouraging is the increasing involvement of younger members stepping into leadership roles.
“We have a great group of young people that are beginning to get more involved,” he said. “We’re blessed to have a set of mentors that have been in the breed for many years that are willing to guide and mold the youth of our breed into our future leaders.”
He also points to the upcoming Brangus Days event as an example of the association investing in connection and education. Designed to bring members together for fellowship, learning, and collaboration, the gathering reflects a desire to strengthen relationships across the breed.
As he prepares to pass the gavel, Green’s message to members is simple.
“I’m truly grateful for the opportunity, and I’m humbled to follow in the footsteps of the great breeders who have come before me,” he said.
His advice to incoming leadership mirrors the principles that guided his own decisions.
“The best piece of advice that I can give is to always put the breed’s needs above your personal agenda,” Green said. “Make decisions that will still allow you to lay your head down at night with a clear conscience.”
Looking back, he hopes his term provided stability and a positive example for those stepping into leadership roles behind him. He plans to remain available as a resource whenever needed.
“I hope that my time as president has been a positive influence on the incoming officers,” he said. “If there is ever anything that I can do to help, I’m always willing to do so.”
At home, the future he worked toward at the association level is personal. Green and his wife, Sara, are raising their children, Hadley and Breck, on the ranch, passing along the same work ethic and appreciation for Brangus cattle that shaped his own path.
Green leaves the presidency with confidence in the direction the association is headed and pride in the progress made during his term. With committed breeders, emerging leaders, and a clear sense of purpose across the organization, he believes the foundation is in place for continued growth in the years ahead.
join us in March at we honor and pay tribute to country and fought for all things greatest nation in the world.
Ranch • Leona, Texas and 21, 2026
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U.S. Genetics in the Tropics
Strengthening Partnerships in Panama
BY CARLOS RAÚL PEÑA, USLGE LATIN AMERICA MARKET REPRESENTATIVE
In October 2025, the U.S. Livestock Genetics Export led a technical mission to Panama focused on evaluating commercial beef production in rigorous tropical environments. The delegation brought together key industry collaborators, including Macee Wagner, director of genomics and research for the International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA). A primary objective was to observe firsthand the environmental pressures that define cattle performance in this region, including sustained heat, high humidity, significant parasite loads, and seasonal forage variability that often results in lower quality nutritional resources.
THE CHALLENGE OF TROPICAL PRODUCTION AND GENERATIONAL TRANSITION
Discussions with local breeders highlighted that one of the most pressing challenges facing Panamanian beef production is generational transition. Across many family operations, fewer young people are willing to assume the responsibility of managing and advancing the ranch, creating uncertainty about long term continuity. This reality increases the importance of education, innovation, and profitability. For the next generation to remain engaged, cattle production must demonstrate clear economic potential and efficiency. Because both dairy and beef systems in Panama are predominantly forage based with limited access to grain and byproduct feeds, producers are increasingly focused on genetics that can improve performance within resource constrained environments. Continued advancement of Brangus genetics offers a pathway to improve productivity, adaptability, and sustainability in these tropical commercial systems.
EVALUATING U.S. BRANGUS GENETICS UNDER TROPICAL STRESS
A central component of the mission was a visit to the Carlos M. Ortega Laboratory of Biotechnology and Reproduction at the Gualaca Experimental Station, operated by the Instituto de Innovación Agropecuaria de Panamá. The facility is overseen by lead geneticist
Roderick Gonzalez-Murray and houses Panama’s national bovine germplasm bank.
Recent investments have modernized local facilities for advanced reproductive biotechnologies, yet a shortage of specialized personnel remains. This gap presents an opportunity for educational partnerships and technical training that could help transform existing infrastructure into a self sustaining hub of innovation. Strengthening human capital alongside genetic resources positions Panama to advance its livestock sector while creating collaborative opportunities for international partners.
A STRATEGIC PROVING GROUND FOR THE BREED
The engagement reinforced that Panama is more than a potential market. It represents a valuable proving ground for tropical adaptation. Preliminary discussions explored opportunities for collaboration with IBBA to establish frameworks for assessing livestock performance and genetic resilience under tropical conditions. These conversations included leveraging regional data to better understand how specific traits respond to environmental pressures and identifying areas for future joint research initiatives.
There is also strong demand for producer education, particularly in the Chiriquí region, with interest in training related to nutrition, reproductive technologies, and hoof
care. Supporting these needs strengthens relationships while expanding the global relevance of Brangus genetics.
Validating performance in demanding commercial environments strengthens confidence in the breed’s ability to deliver results where environmental pressure is constant. As beef production continues expanding into challenging climates, collaborative missions such as this one help ensure that U.S. genetics are not only exported, but tested, understood, and positioned for long term success.
Any Country is Brangus Country!
IT’S TIME TO GET A PINKEYE PLAN
Setting a strategy now can prevent ROI from being blindsided.
It’s never too early, and certainly not too late, to develop a plan to address bovine pinkeye. But where do you start? According to Dr. Dustin Loy, associate professor of Veterinary Diagnostic Microbiology, Nebraska Veterinary Diagnostic Center, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, “An ideal strategy would involve consultation with the producer to fully understand their production systems in addition to disease history and current vaccine and prevention programs. This, combined with a herd visit to understand potential risk factors and causes, can be helpful to develop a strategy that helps meet the producer’s goals.”
VACCINATION FLY CONTROL PASTUREMANA G TNEME
Risk factors for bovine pinkeye come in several forms. Among the highest are face flies, woody grasses, hay bales, sawdust and sand. That’s why talking about proper management for these potential eye invaders is key. Also, starting the conversation about eye patches, antibiotics and pour-overs is important. Preventive measures, such as vaccines like Bovilis® 20/20 Vision® 7 and Bovilis® Piliguard® Pinkeye, can also keep healthy cattle healthy and protect profits.
Once you’ve completed your consultation and risk investigation, it’s essential to follow up with the prescribed strategy. “Our research shows that because of the time it takes to induce immunity, I would really support that recommendation of treating early and treating as prescribed,”says Dr. Philip
Griebel, professor and Canada Research Chair in Neonatal Mucosal Immunology, University of Saskatchewan.
“Because there’s probably very limited value vaccinating in the face of an outbreak, you need to treat often and treat early.”
Dr. John Angelos, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, professor of Medicine and Epidemiology, University of California, Davis, echoes the sentiment of treating early.
“The point of giving vaccines sooner is it will allow the animal time to develop an immune response. The general recommendation I have is to start a vaccine series at least four weeks before you would
“Because there’s probably very limited value vaccinating in the face of an outbreak, you need to treat often and treat early.”
Dr. John Angelos, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, professor of Medicine and Epidemiology, University of California, Davis
typically expect to see the cases starting to crop up in the herd. Designing herd health programs to help prevent the disease and develop standard operating procedures is fundamental.”
When it comes to preventing pinkeye, prevention is the best medicine, and right now is the time to start the conversation with your vet and get a plan in place. That way, you’ll be well on your way to keeping your animals healthy, pain-free and profitable for your operation.
When infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis (IBK), also known as pinkeye, is introduced into an unvaccinated herd, it can have devastating effects on weaning weights in beef calves.
Poor herd health can lead to decreased market value for beef and decreased milk production for dairy.
Calves infected with pinkeye can be 30-40 lbs lighter at weaning than healthy calves.1
Dairy milk production losses can cost up to $352 per animal.2
Vaccinations are an integral tool for preventing disease and for maintaining herd health.
For vaccinations to increase market value and productivity for both beef and dairy cattle, they need to be administrated according to label directions.
Producers should work with their veterinarians to decide on an optimum vaccination strategy for their herd.
“ Weight losses, due to pinkeye, have been measured and quantitated in beef cattle. Economic losses in beef and dairy cattle due to antibiotic treatments should also be considered as a consequence of pinkeye.”
- Dr. John Angelos, DVM, PhD, DACVIM Chair, Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
For more information about the potentially devastating effects of bovine pinkeye and how vaccination can protect your herd, visit MAHcattle.com.
Hboots on the Ground in Houston
BY CAMILLE BURNS, IJBBA VICE PRESIDENT
owdy! I hope all is well and that the year has been off to a great start. As we enter a long but fruitful week at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, myself alongside the rest of the International Junior Brangus Breeders Association (IJBBA) Board of Directors are super excited to serve Brangus breeders!
We kicked off the year at a fast pace as we headed to Cattlemen’s Congress in Oklahoma, and what a way to start 2026! The Brangus breed was exceptionally represented, earning both Open Supreme Heifer and Open Supreme Bull honors. It’s an incredible privilege to be part of a breed that continues to compete and win at the highest level. We are proud to represent cattle of such outstanding quality and a community that works tirelessly to raise the bar year after year.
The Houston Open Show represents more than just a competition. It is a celebration of the dedication, hard work, and passion that define our breed. For our juniors, it’s an opportunity to step into the ring with pride, knowing they are backed by generations of breeders who believe in the strength and future of Brangus cattle. It’s also a time to showcase the quality and consistency that continues to move our breed forward. Houston provides a unique platform to share the Brangus story with a broader audience. With so many industry leaders, cattle enthusiasts, and families in attendance, the International Brangus Open Show gives us a chance to demonstrate the value, versatility, and performance that Brangus cattle bring to operations across the country. It’s an opportunity to strengthen relationships, build new connections, and promote the future of our breed.
The IJBBA Board is ready and excited to help in any way we can! Throughout the week, our goal is to represent the association with professionalism, enthusiasm, and integrity. Whether we’re at the Brangus booth, in committee meetings, or working the ring, we’ll be available to answer questions and assist throughout the week. Houston is truly one of our favorite weeks of
the year, and we’re looking forward to giving it our very best as we head into an incredible show.
We are grateful for the opportunity to give back to an organization that invests so much in its youth and membership. We look forward to a productive and memorable week in Houston and to continuing to build momentum for the year ahead. We encourage everyone to come by, say hello, and cheer on exhibitors. Whether you are showing, supporting, or simply visiting, your presence helps make this event memorable for everyone involved!
Western National at Cattlemen’s Congress National SOE Point Show
Results by: Lori Edwards-Dunkerley Photos by: Next Level Images
The 2026 Western National at Cattlemen’s Congress, National SOE Point Show was held January 14, 2026 in Oklahoma City, OK. Exhibitors welcomed judges Chris Barton and Kolten Thigpen.
GRAND CHAMPION BRANGUS FEMALE
GKB STARSTRUCK 924N2
GKB CATTLE, DESDEMONA, TX
MP ELECTRIC 804M13 MP BRANGUS, WACO, TX
GRAND CHAMPION
FEMALE MC BADA BANG 628M7 MILL CREEK LAND & CATTLE, PURYEAR, TN
RESERVE CHAMPION BRANGUS FEMALE
RAFTER L RAE JAY 157M LUCHERK CATTLE, MCCOY, TX
RESERVE CHAMPION ULTRABLACK/ULTRARED FEMALE
JACKSON, GENTRY, AR GRAND CHAMPION BRANGUS BULL
RESERVE CHAMPION BRANGUS BULL
JJ BIG CASINO 331M
EMILY JACKSON, GENTRY, AR
GRAND CHAMPION RED BRANGUS FEMALE
TAJO MS MAJESTIC 23M5
SENDERO BRANGUS & BRAFORD, LAREDO, TX
TAJO RANCH, WALLER, TX
KO'S CATTLE SERVICE, WAXAHACHIE, TX
RESERVE CHAMPION RED BRANGUS FEMALE
TRIOS ED BO NOOR 700N2
BO SCASTA, BRYAN, TX
TRIO CATTLE & GENETICS, MABANK, TX
GANADERIA EL DUQUE, MERIDA, YUCATAN, MEXICO
GRAND CHAMPION RED BRANGUS BULL
TAJO GHOST PEPPER 204L9
TAJO RANCH, WALLER, TX
GKB CATTLE, DESDEMONA, TX
SENDERO RED BRANGUS, LAREDO, TX
VILLA RANCH, BROOKSHIRE, TX
KO’S CATTLE SERVICE, WAXAHACHIE, TX
RESERVE CHAMPION RED BRANGUS BULL
VILLAS RED LABEL 38M2
VILLA RANCH, BROOKSHIRE, TX
GRAND CHAMPION BRANGUS COW-CALF PAIR
CHAMP MS NAENAE 27K1
CHAMPIONS VALLEY BRANGUS, SCHULENBURG, TX
RESERVE CHAMPION BRANGUS COW-CALF PAIR
KL MS DELTA FORCE 77L1 K&L BRANGUS, FLORESVILLE, TX
GRAND CHAMPION ULTRABLACK/ULTRARED BULL
7X SHOTTA WHISKEY 80N WYATT LEJUENE, BUNA, TX
RESERVE CHAMPION ULTRABLACK/ULTRARED BULL
MCC LONE RANGER 5561L
MADILYN NICHOLS, KATHLEEN, FL
MAXWELL CATTLE COMPANY, PONDER, TX
GRAND CHAMPION RED BRANGUS COW-CALF PAIR
MSS MBJ LINDA 236L
BROKEN A RANCH, MADISONVILLE, TX
MBJ RANCH, WHARTON, TX
RESERVE CHAMPION RED BRANGUS COW-CALF PAIR
TX MS HOME RUN 01/L TYLER TANECKA, COLUMBUS, TX
CATTLEMEN'S CONGRESS RESULTS
BRANGUS FEMALES
HEIFER CALF CHAMPION:
ACC MAGGIE MAE 192M3 CLEAVIE ALLEN | CROCKETT, TEXAS
RESERVE JUNIOR HEIFER: CT MS HIGH MAINTENANCE 137M, CARLEE TAYLOR, LAKELAND, FL
SENIOR HEIFER CHAMPION: MNR MS 302M2, MADILYN NICHOLS, KATHLEEN, FLORIDA
PERCENTAGE FEMALE DIVISIONS
HEIFER CALF CHAMPION: LJR MS HEAR ME KNOCKING 4193, TRUITT MARKS, WAXAHACHIE, TX
RESERVE HEIFER CALF: ACC MISS ALTO CINCO 2617, CLEAVIE ALLEN, CROCKETT, TX
SENIOR HEIFER CHAMPION: RAFTER L KESHA 091M, KARA MCKEE, TATUM, TX
G+ is home to breed leading sires for the traits that matter most: fertility, growth, and carcass.
Emphasising structure, sheath design and balance, G+ sells more semen into more herds across the globe than any other Brangus program in the U.S.
for productivity AND
G+ bulls are priced competitevely, allowing EVERYONE to improve and move the needle forward.
Cattlemen that understand the real-world cattle business, not the fluff and puff of the seedstock industry.
Supporting the future
The International Brangus Breeders Foundation (IBBF) continues to expand opportunities for breeders to support youth, education, and research through creative fundraising partnerships, and this spring, two breeders are stepping forward in a meaningful way.
Both Cavender Ranches and Mound Creek Ranch have committed to featuring IBBF lots in their upcoming sales. These lots provide a unique chance for breeders to access quality genetics while contributing to programs that strengthen the Brangus breed. For details about lot details, please reach out directly to the ranches to learn more about what will be offered. See sale details below:
Mound Creek Brangus Registered Bull & Female Sale
March 20-21, 2026
Leona, TX
Cavender Ranches Registered and Commercial Female Sale
April 24-25, 2026
Jacksonville, TX
Looking ahead, the IBBF already has two featured sales confirmed for the fall, providing additional opportunities for breeders to participate and support the Foundation, with the help of CDP Brangus and GENEPLUS Brangus Cattle. Operations interested in featuring IBBF lots in upcoming sales are encouraged to contact the International Brangus Breeders Association office for details on how to get involved.
Through these sales, breeders can make a direct and lasting impact on the future of the Brangus breed— supporting education, research, and programs that develop the next generation of breeders and leaders in the industry. Every contribution helps ensure the breed continues to grow stronger and thrive for years to come.
REMEMBERING DONALD "DON" COX
BY THE COX FAMILY
Donald Paul Cox (also known as Don, Donnie, Daddy, and PawPaw) was born on September 24, 1952, in Houston, Texas, to Harley and Viola Cox.
Don graduated from Waltrip High School in 1971 and earned his Bachelor of Business Administration with a minor in Finance from Sam Houston State University in 1975.
Don grew up in Oak Forest in Houston, where he developed a lifelong love of sports. He played baseball, and although he never played basketball, he became an avid Houston Rockets fan and was a season ticket holder for 40 years. He especially cherished taking his father to all four NBA Championship series and sharing many games over the years with his children.
Don often said and truly believed, “I have been blessed with the best.” Those blessings began with his four children Cayla, Cody, Conner, and Courtney along with his wife, Lili; his stepchildren, Monique and Ryan; and his beloved grandchildren, whose cries of “PawPaw, PawPaw!” melted his heart. Another great joy in his life was traveling with his in-laws and close companions, Boby and Lil.
Don began his career at JCPenney as a stockboy in 1968 and went on to build a successful career in management. His final position with JCPenney was District Merchandiser before leaving in 1984 to pursue a career in financial management. In 1989, Don founded Cox Global Associates, a successful business that continues today under the leadership of his son, Cody Cox.
In 1983, Don fulfilled a longtime dream by purchasing his grandparents’ homestead in Weimar, Texas, and establishing a cattle operation known as Cox Excalibur Red Brangus, which remains in operation today. Cox Excalibur has sold CX genetics into 11 countries worldwide. Don was one of the original founders of the International Red Brangus Breeders Association in 1991, serving on its Board of Directors from 1991 to 2025 and as president for three years. Throughout his cattle career, he was honored with numerous awards, including Breeder of the Year, Pioneer of the Year, Herdsman of the Year, and the Jake White Lifetime Achievement Award, among others.
Don was elected president of the International Brangus Breeders Association in 2010 after serving as chairman of numerous committees and as Treasurer/Secretary of the association. He also served on the Board of Directors for eight years and was a member of the original World Brangus Committee that launched the Congress in 2000 in Houston, Texas.
Don moved to Katy in 1992 and became deeply involved in the community. He served as Chairman of City Elections, President of Katy Management District 1 for 30 years, and a member of the Charter Review Committee. Don believed strongly in the importance of community involvement.
Don lost his battle with pancreatic cancer after a courageous fight that included two years and 25 rounds of chemotherapy. His strength and faith were admirable, as he continually thanked God for healing. Ultimately, God healed him by calling him home to Heaven. Don loved and cherished his family throughout his journey and touched countless lives through his kindness, humor, generosity, and unwavering commitment to God and family. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed. His legacy of faith and love will live on through all who were blessed to know him.
Don’s survivors include Lili Cox, Cayla Cox, Cody Cox, Courtney Cox, Conner Cox, Martha Cox, Bonnie Cox, Jason and Kat Pittman, Madeleine and Luke Pittman, Patrick and Monique Connor, Finleigh and Declan Connor, Ryan and Stephanie Coolman, Marley-Ann Coolman, and Julian Canovas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harley P. Cox and Viola Cox.
REMEMBERING James “Steve” Densmore
BY THE DENSMORE FAMILY
James Stephen “Steve” Densmore, 79, of Bryan, passed away on Saturday, February 14, 2026. He was born on May 10, 1946, in Memphis, Tennessee, to James and Nola Densmore.
Steve is survived by his former wife, Mary; their daughter, Maggie; and his granddaughter, Tarynn. He is also survived by his sister, Gloria Bates (Tom); his nephews, Joe Cockerham and Gilbert Bates; his niece, Christina Bates; his aunt, Patsy Bible; and many cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Nola Densmore, and his sister, Linda Cockerham of San Antonio, Texas.
Steve dedicated his life to advancing the Brangus breed. He began his career at Camp Cooley Ranch in 1973, where he met Mary. Over the years, he worked with Granada Land & Cattle and Horizon Land & Cattle before eventually joining Circle X Land & Cattle.
He served the International Brangus Breeders Association in many capacities, including as president from 2002 to 2003, as a member of the Board of Directors, on the International Junior Brangus Breeders Association Advisory Board, and on numerous committees. He was also deeply involved with the Texas Brangus Breeders Association, serving as its president.
Steve had a special passion for supporting youth programs and devoted more than two decades to serving as an advisor to the Texas Junior Brangus Breeders Association.
During his career in the cattle industry, he received numerous honors, including Breeder of the Year in 2013 and the Georgeanne Myers Supporter of the Year Award. His dedication to the Brangus breed and his unwavering support of junior programs left a lasting and meaningful impact.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Steve’s name may be made to the International Brangus Auxiliary Scholarship Fund and mailed to: IBA Treasurer, Connie Smart, P.O. Box 590, Runge, TX 78151
Visitation and funeral details are still pending at this time. Express condolences with the family at.www.CallawayJones.com.
Calendar of events
Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
March 4-7, 2026 Houston, TX
National Brangus Sale
March 5, 2026 Houston, TX
World Brangus Congress
March 12-24, 2026 Londrina, Brazil
Cavender’s Bull and Commercial Female Sale
March 14, 2026 Jacksonville, TX
4th Annual Texas Alliance Sale @ Briggs Ranch
March 17, 2026 Bloomington, TX
Mound Creek Brangus Registered Bull & Female Sale
March 20-21, 2026 Leona, TX
Red Alliance Sale
March 21, 2026 Hempstead, TX
GENEPLUS @ Chimney Rock Spring Sale
March 24, 2026 Concord, AR
CDP Spring 2026 Brangus Bull & Female Sale
March 27-28, 2026 El Dorado, AR
Oklahoma Brangus Association Spring Bull & Female Sale
March 28, 2026 McAlester, OK
TBBA Spring Spectacular Female Sale @ Tenroc Ranch
April 4, 2026 Salado, TX
Genetic Edge Sale
April 18, 2026 Huntsville, TX
Cavender Ranches Registered and Commercial Female Sale
April 24-25, 2026 Jacksonville, TX
Oak Creek Farms Spring Brangus Bull Sale
April 25, 2026 Chappell Hill, TX
Circle F Farms Brangus Female Sale
May 2, 2026 Baxley, GA
Fenco Farms Registered Female Sale
May 4, 2026 Floral City, FL
GENEPLUS @ Bar V Genetix Female Sale
May 23, 2026 Oneonta, AL
Cut Above Registered Brangus Female Sale
May 30, 2026 Cullman, AL
ACE Registered Female Sale
June 6, 2026 Orange Beach, AL
Brangus Days
July 24-26, 2026 College Station, TX
Visit www.gobrangus.com/events-and-shows to submit your event today!
4965 FM 2064N | Troup, TX 75789 ka_welch87@aol.com | 903-571-8716
Corey White | Spur W Cattle
479 Hwy 397 | Preston, MS 39354 spurwcattle@gmail.com | 662-803-8815
To be added to the list of AI Technicians, email your name, location and contact information to info@gobrangus.com
TRUE BRANGUS TO MAXIMIZE HETEROSIS
Brangus were created more than 75 years ago to blend two desirable breeds to create a new one. Unlike breeding value or EPD, Heterosis is not passed from generation to generation in a crossbreeding program without a loss in its level unless a stable breeding program is established (as has been done in Brangus and at OCF). Heterosis has the greatest effect on traits most affected by environment... adaptability, longevity, fertility, maternal ability, resistance to parasites and diseases. OCF is widely known for their True Brangus and increased Heterosis allowing their genetics to perform better in most environments. Long-time customers and repeat buyers tell the real story at Oak Creek Farms.
SALE CONTACTS
Owner: John Kopycinski 979-251-2530
Consultants: Gary Bruns 830-391-0766 • Kent Smith 979-540-8338
Mike Arnold 979-732-7679 • Charlie Tiner 713-252-4662
Auctioneer: Troy Robinett 817-995-7509
These bulls sell!
ibba board of directors
President Grady Green, AR
1st Vice President Josh Walker, Ph.D., AR
2nd Vice President Warren Young, DVM, OK
Secretary/Treasurer Jeremy Jackson, AR
EAST REGION
Trey Cuevas, Purvis, MS - Seat 7 treycuevas3@yahoo.com
Grady Green, El Dorado, AR - Seat 9 grady@dragginmranch.com
Jeremy Jackson, Gentry, AR - Seat 2 jjackson101@gmail.com
Rob Singleton, Seville, FL - Seat 3 rsingletoncattle@yahoo.com
texas region
Mary Douglass, Seguin, TX - Seat 1 twoheartsbrangus@yahoo.com
Joe Fuller, Willow City, TX - Seat 5 jw.fuller@yahoo.com
