Cheree Kirkbride, pictured with Cherees Hollywinder, passed away May 30. • Photo by Jeff KirkbrideCheree Kirkbride, 55, of Ocala, Florida, passed away early on Saturday, May 30. A multiple NRHA World Champion and respected dog handler/owner/breeder, Kirkbride did everything with the intent to succeed.
She earned the NRHA Limited Non-Pro World Championship in 1993 aboard Kitty San Twist (Heza New Twist x San Sue Huston x Mr Leo San) and followed that up with the NRHA Intermediate Non-Pro World title in 1994 aboard her beloved double-registered mare, Cherees Hollywinder (Hollywinder) (Doc Wood Smoke x Sidewinders Doll x Docs Sidewinder). She and her husband, Jeff Kirkbride, were the breeders of many NRHA champions, including KR Lil Conquistador (Conquistador Whiz x Smart Little Prize x Smart And Trouble), the 2005 Congress and NRHA Futurity Open Champion.
Kirkbride became interested in Cardigan Welsh Corgis when she purchased one years ago. It wasn’t long before she developed her own successful kennel and earned respect as a handler and breeder. She was a familiar face in the winner’s circle of the Cardigan, Pembroke or Collie rings.
She was also a familiar face to many at major equine events across the country, as she worked along with Jeff in their equine photography business.
A Celebration of Life, honoring Cheree, will be held on July 1 at 6:30 p.m. at the Kirkbride home, 5700 N.W. 90th Ave., Ocala, FL 34482. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Pinto Heritage Foundation. The address for donations is 7330 N.W. 23rd St., Bethany, OK 73008, and questions can be directed via phone to 405-491-0111, extension 225. The family would like to establish a scholarship in Cheree Kirkbride’s name.
