Equestrians and horseriders are always at risk of various injuries that might cripple them. There isn’t any lack of cases of equestrians getting injured or horses dying while competing. However, of all the unlikely ways a horserider can die along with his horse, getting struck by lightning while nowhere near a racing track, takes the cake for being the rarest manner of death. Yet this 27-year-old pro rodeo cowboy met this unlikely fate last week when he was riding his horse somewhere north of Nebraska. His wife, naturally, is devastated but has still mustered the willpower to express her gratitude to everyone who extended their love and support. The horseriding community is equally devastated.

Terrel Vineyard and his horse were fatally struck by a lightning bolt in Oshkosh, Nebraska. He was pronounced dead on the scene, and it was only later that his wife found out about it. Bereaved of her husband, she found support in the countless admirers sending in their good wishes.

Rodeo Cowboy left an everlasting impact on everyone he knew

Stacey Vineyard, the wife of Terrel Vineyard, took to Facebook and wrote, “The Vineyard family wants to thank everyone for what they have done for us the last week and moving forward. Helping us prepare for Terrel’s service and making sure we are also taken care of. Thank you to those who graciously contributed to the girl’s memorial account and to those who have made meals for us”. Stacey Vineyard sounded genuine, heartfelt, and humble while writing this post.

Despite suffering from the loss, she could appreciate how loved she and especially her late husband is. Terrel Vineyard died on June 27th, 2023 and it was only with the help of the community that Stacey and her family could perform all the rituals, and services, and lay down him with respect.

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She continued, “Thank you to everyone who was able to bring horses. We are very grateful for the extra effort it took to do that.” It was an added nice touch on the community’s part to bring their horses to pay respect to a cowboy.

The equestrian and horseriding community considered him like a family member

As Stacey Vineyard expressed her gratitude in the most emotional way, it also welled up in the eyes of netizens. Here’s how some of the reacted:

“My family is so heartbroken and can only imagine the pain you are experiencing. Take care – you are all loved”, wrote a fan who could almost feel Stacey Vineyard and her family’s pain.

“We’re just down the road if y’all ever need anything. Much love and prayers for you all”, wrote a fan offering the Vineyards their endless support.

“Amazing service,” wrote someone who was impressed by the well-deserved respect shown to Terrel Vineyard at the service.

“Big love and prayers”, wrote a fan who simply extended an offer of love and support.

“I am so sorry. You all are in our prayers”, wrote someone who expresses that Terrel and his memories will always stay with them in their hearts.

Terrel Vineyard passed away in a tragic manner, but his memories and impact on the community live on forever. He is survived by his wife Stacey, and other family members Nancy, Shawn, and Tori Scnatling.

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