Deedy Sue Decker of Shelbyville, Tennessee went home to be with the Lord on April 17, 2021 at the age of 80. She was born in Mexico, Missouri on July 25, 1940, and was a resident of Omaha, Nebraska before making Shelbyville, Tennessee her home. She was a legend in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry as an exhibitor in the 1960’s and a staunch supporter up to the present. She attended The Celebration faithfully and other shows in the Shelbyville area as her health permitted, and was a great mentor for her friends who were showing, offering advice and encouragement.

Deedy is remembered for her show ring performances on Second Time Around, Shadow’s Red Warrior and Mr. Sensation. She rode Mr. Sensation to the Amateur World Grand Championship in 1961. Perhaps she is most remembered for her iconic rhinestone riding coat which is on display at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum. This coat was one of a kind when Deedy first wore it and remains unduplicated.

When Deedy chose to no longer exhibit, her love for horses took a different direction into advertising and publication. Her career as a publicist included positions with The Voice of the Tennessee Walking Horse and the Walking Horse Report. Prior to her retirement, she served as editor of the Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders’ and Exhibitors’ News for sixteen years.

Deedy was also recognized for her artistic talent. She designed logos for various stables and organizations which remain in use today. Many people are fortunate to own examples of her artwork, including her famous hand painted Christmas ornaments which were designed for specific horses.

Deedy served on the Board of Directors for the Walking Horse National Museum and was very active in the museum’s work. She was dedicated to preserving the history of the Tennessee Walking Horse and worked tirelessly to that end.

Deedy was a charter member of Grace Baptist Church of Shelbyville and attended faithfully as long as her health permitted.

She was the daughter of the late Melvin Amick and Mildred Louise Boyd Decker and Don Decker. She is survived by her cherished friends and caregivers; half sisters and brother, Vivian Amick, Dennie Rhoades, Kathleen Amick, Melvin Amick, Jr.; her step-mother, Carol Amick; her much loved companion dog, Josie; and many friends who loved her and were loved by her.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, April 25th, at Grace Baptist Church, 1019 Madison Street in Shelbyville. Reverend Bobby McGee will officiate. Visitation will begin at 1:00 P.M. prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum, 27 Main St. E., Wartrace, TN 37183. The Scoop sends our condolences to Deedy’s family and the many friends who loved her.