Author: Ally Dustin

The rodeo world, the community of Pavillion, Wyoming, and all who knew and loved him are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Dylan Grant, a talented bull rider, a beloved friend, and a remarkable young man. At just 24 years old, Dylan’s life was tragically cut short in a bull riding accident at the Wharton County Youth Fair Xtreme Bulls in Wharton, Texas. He fought with everything he had, doing what he loved, and though paramedics reached him in seconds, despite their best efforts, he was flown to Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center in Houston, where he was pronounced.

There are no words that can truly capture the shock, grief, and immense sadness that fills the hearts of Dylan’s family, friends, and the entire rodeo community. He was not just a bull rider—he was a warrior, a dreamer, and a man whose spirit could light up any room. He lived for the thrill of the ride, the camaraderie of his rodeo family, and the simple joy of sharing laughter and stories with the people he loved.

A Life Built on Passion and Determination

Dylan Grant’s journey began in Wyoming, where he spent his early years in Pavillion. He attended Wind River Schools, Jackson Hole Middle School, and Jackson Hole High School, shaping a path that led him to discover his love for bull riding. His talent and determination earned him a place at the University of Wyoming, where he graduated in 2023. Throughout his time in school, Dylan was known for his fearless pursuit of his passions, his love for adventure, and his unwavering commitment to his dreams.

Bull riding was more than a sport to Dylan—it was his calling. He understood the risks, as every cowboy does, but he never let fear hold him back. He rode with a fire in his soul, a grin on his face, and the heart of a champion. Those who knew him best recall how he never backed down from a challenge and always gave his all, whether inside the arena or in everyday life. He rode for the love of the sport, the legacy of cowboys before him, and the thrill of pushing himself beyond his limits.

The Heart of a True Cowboy

Beyond the rodeo arena, Dylan was the kind of person who made life brighter for everyone around him. He had a rare gift—an ability to bring people together, to make them feel seen, valued, and loved. His infectious laugh, boundless energy, and kind-hearted nature made him the life of every gathering. Friends describe him as loyal, selfless, and endlessly fun—the kind of friend who would stand by your side no matter what.

One friend beautifully expressed what Dylan meant to those around him:
“Many years of my life were spent alongside Dylan Grant ❤️. I could share a million pictures and stories. We shared way too many laughs & quite a few cries together through the good times and the not-so-good. Through him, I gained so many friends and a whole new family that I never knew I was missing. His chapter in my story shaped my life into what it is today. He was always the life of the party, the kindest soul, and most importantly—an incredible friend. I will always look back on our time together & smile. I feel so lucky to have been one of his people.”

Dylan was more than just a talented cowboy—he was a brother, a son, a mentor, and an inspiration to many. His presence was magnetic, and his ability to bring joy to others was a gift that will be forever missed.

A Community in Mourning

The outpouring of grief from the rodeo community and beyond is a testament to how much Dylan meant to so many people. His passing is a devastating loss for the world of bull riding, where he was recognized as a rising star with unlimited potential. His tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the incredible courage these athletes display every time they step into the arena.

One of his fellow riders, who was present at the event, shared these poignant words:
“I’ve been searching for the words all morning because I can’t imagine how Dylan Grant’s family feels right now. So far today, I’ve been contacted by ABC News, CBS, Good Morning America, and two newspapers. I have declined the interviews because I don’t want Dylan’s story twisted. I’ll tell what happened. Dylan just got bucked off in a bad spot, trying his ass off to make the whistle. He went out with his boots on, and I hope I’m that lucky. My heart is broken today—I think everyone who was there feels the same. The paramedics got to him within 20 seconds after he was stepped on. They did all they could. Every time we step in the arena, we know it can happen, but we never think it will. God bless Dylan Grant and his family.”

Dylan’s passing is not just a loss for his family and friends—it is a loss for the entire rodeo family, a close-knit community that stands together in times of triumph and tragedy.

Honoring His Legacy

As we remember Dylan, we hold on to the memories of his infectious laughter, his fearless spirit, and the countless ways he touched our lives. He was someone who lived fully, loved deeply, and never took a single day for granted. His passion, kindness, and unbreakable spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him, and his legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of everyone who loved him.

While words cannot ease the pain of this loss, we find comfort in knowing that Dylan left this world doing what he loved most. He rode with heart, with grit, and with a determination that defined him as a true cowboy. He will be remembered not just for his talent in the arena, but for the incredible human being he was.

To honor Dylan’s memory, let us live as he did—fearlessly, with kindness, and with an unshakable love for life. Let us hold on to the moments he shared with us, and let his spirit guide us forward.

Dylan Grant, you will never be forgotten. May you ride in peace among the stars, where the greatest cowboys rest.

Rest easy, cowboy. Your story lives on.

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Brad Warner, a renowned pediatric surgeon, dedicated mentor, and compassionate leader in the medical field. His unexpected passing has left a void that cannot be filled, and his absence is deeply felt by his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless lives he touched throughout his distinguished career.

Brad Warner was not just a surgeon—he was a healer, mentor, and visionary. His brilliance, empathy, and unwavering dedication to pediatric surgery set him apart as one of the most respected figures in academic medicine. A native of Missouri, Brad devoted his life to ensuring the health and well-being of children, using his exceptional skills and knowledge to improve the lives of his patients and their families.

A Legacy of Excellence in Medicine

From the early stages of his medical career, Brad demonstrated an extraordinary passion for healing. He began his journey as a third-year medical student, working tirelessly on nutritional research for Dr. Fischer, a role that, at the time, seemed daunting. He was responsible for every central line placement for any patient on Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN)—a demanding task that required both precision and endurance. While the work was challenging, Brad’s commitment to the field never wavered.

His perseverance led him to become a leading pediatric surgeon, known for his skill, innovation, and ability to mentor the next generation of physicians. Many of his former students and colleagues recall his ability to teach, guide, and inspire—qualities that made him an invaluable leader in the medical community. His colleagues at Children’s Hospital Medical Center in Cincinnati, OH, where he completed his fellowship and early attending years, remember him as brilliant, compassionate, and deeply empathetic.

Brad Warner’s dedication extended beyond the operating room. He was a mentor who shaped the careers of many aspiring surgeons, instilling in them the values of excellence, integrity, and compassion. He led by example, always prioritizing the needs of his patients while encouraging his colleagues to strive for the highest standards in medicine.

A Life Devoted to Family and Friendship

Beyond his professional achievements, Brad was a devoted husband, father, and friend. He shared a beautiful life with his loving wife, Barbara Warner, and their two daughters, Emily and Lauren. His family was his greatest source of joy, and he took immense pride in watching his daughters grow and succeed.

Brad’s kindness and warmth extended to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Friends and colleagues describe him as a person who radiated kindness, always offering words of encouragement, support, and wisdom. One friend fondly recalled how Brad gifted them a treasured photograph of Joshua Tree, a place he loved. Today, they imagine those trees raising their limbs a little higher in praise, honoring the man who made an indelible impact on so many lives.

An Unforgettable Mentor and Friend

For those fortunate enough to work alongside Brad, his presence was a gift. He had a rare ability to balance professional excellence with genuine human connection. He was not only a leader in pediatric surgery but also a pillar of guidance and inspiration for the many individuals who sought his mentorship. His influence extended far beyond the hospital walls—he was a beacon of hope for those who needed encouragement and a trusted confidant to many.

His colleagues and friends remember him not just for his surgical expertise but for his unwavering kindness. One former trainee expressed their gratitude for the extraordinary compassion, skill, and mentorship Brad provided throughout their journey in medicine. His ability to uplift others, whether through his teachings or simply by being a compassionate friend, was one of his greatest gifts to the world.

A Loss Felt Across the Medical Community

With Brad Warner’s passing, the world of pediatrics has lost a gifted surgeon, and academic medicine has lost a remarkable leader. His absence is deeply felt by all who knew him, but his legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched. His contributions to pediatric surgery, medical education, and mentorship will forever be remembered, and the impact of his work will live on in the many physicians he trained and the patients he cared for.

As we mourn this tremendous loss, we also celebrate the incredible life Brad Warner lived. He dedicated himself fully to his profession, his family, and his friends, leaving behind a legacy of love, healing, and unwavering dedication.

Honoring His Memory

To honor Dr. Brad Warner’s memory, we encourage those who knew him to share their stories, support his family, and continue his mission of compassion and excellence in medicine. His influence, kindness, and brilliance will never be forgotten.

Brad, you will be deeply missed, but your legacy of healing and mentorship will live on. May your memory be an eternal comfort to your family, friends, colleagues, and all whose lives you touched.

Rest in peace, dear friend. You have made the world a better place.