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NCHA HONORS THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF BILLY MARTIN

May 1, 2026, 16:03 PM by National Cutting Horse Association

NCHA joins the cutting horse community in honoring the life and legacy of Clarence William “Billy” Martin.

FORT WORTH, TEXAS — The National Cutting Horse Association joins the cutting horse community in honoring the life and legacy of Clarence William “Billy” Martin, a respected horseman, mentor, and longtime advocate for the sport of cutting.

Born on November 25, 1939, Billy Martin dedicated his life to family, horses, and the advancement of the sport he loved. A lifelong member of both the National Cutting Horse Association and the American Quarter Horse Association, Billy was a National Cutting Horse Association Non-Pro Hall of Fame member and was inducted into the NCHA Members Hall of Fame in 2019 — one of the Association’s highest honors.

Known for his passion, work ethic, and generosity, Billy raised and trained numerous championship cutting horses, including 2014 NCHA Summer Spectacular Derby Champion Laredo Montana. He also played an instrumental role in growing the sport on the East Coast through his leadership with the East Coast Cutting Horse Association and Pennsylvania Cutting Horse Association, while serving for many years as an NCHA Director for Area 19 and on the NCHA Non-Pro Committee.

“Billy Martin embodied the dedication, leadership, and heart that define the cutting horse community,” said Jay Winborn, Executive Director of the National Cutting Horse Association. “His impact on the industry, particularly through his mentorship and service, will be felt for generations. We extend our heartfelt prayers and sympathies to Kris, his children, grandchildren, and all who loved him.”

Billy passed away on April 27, 2026, surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife, Kris, his children and grandchildren, extended family, and countless friends throughout the cutting horse industry.

Funeral will be a private graveside service later this summer, where he will rest beside his cherished parents in Everett, Pennsylvania.

The family is asking in lieu of flowers to please extend an act of kindness to anyone who is dealing with the horrible disease of cancer.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Galbreaith Pickard Funeral Chapel.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Clarence William "Billy" Martin, please visit this website.