Four individuals were inducted into the N.C. State Fair Livestock Hall of Fame on Sunday, October 26, at the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. The announcement was made by Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.
“Our livestock shows are some of the best in the nation, and the N.C. State Fair Livestock Hall of Fame serves to recognize individuals who work behind the scenes to make that true year after year,” Troxler said. “Generations before and generations to come have benefitted from the dedication and experience of these four individuals, and we are proud to add them to this hall of fame.”
This year’s inductees include Kimberly Eudy of Cabarrus County, who was honored posthumously in the Beef Cattle category. Eudy participated in the N.C. State Fair for over twenty years and passed away earlier this year following a brief illness with ALS. She was known for her commitment to agriculture and Hereford cattle, which she shared with her daughters Alexis and Courtney. Despite health challenges in 2024, Eudy continued attending the fair to support her daughters and their peers. Her daughter Alexis Ketchie accepted the award on her behalf.
Russell “Rusty” Isley of Alamance County was recognized in the Dairy Cattle category. Isley has been involved with showing dairy cattle throughout his life, continuing a family tradition started by his father in 1948. The Isley family marked its 78th consecutive year participating at the fair in 2025. Rusty has served on several dairy boards including nearly four decades with the North Carolina Purebred Dairy Cattle Association, where he has held four terms as president.
William Johnson of Wake County entered under General Supporters for his longstanding assistance to livestock shows since around 1980. He began supplying wheat straw for horse shows before major facilities were built and later managed stall cleaning operations until 2015. Johnson continues providing feed, bedding, and logistical support across numerous state events.
Ellen Mabry of Stanly County was inducted in the Sheep category after more than forty years supporting North Carolina’s sheep industry and involvement at the State Fair since college. Mabry helped grow youth programs such as starting what became the Got to Be NC Award class, returned to showing sheep after losing a leg in 2013, and remains active within agricultural circles.
The N.C. State Fair Livestock Hall of Fame has recognized supporters since 1980, honoring those who have contributed significantly as producers or through roles connected with agricultural organizations or event management.
With these additions, a total of 189 people have been inducted into the Hall of Fame.
