Alma Haggin, Keeneland’s grande dame, dies at 96
Alma Headley Haggin, a member of one of Kentucky’s most distinguished racing families, died on Wednesday in Lexington. She was 96.
Haggin was the daughter of Hal Price Headley, Keeneland’s co-founder and inaugural president. Her late husband, Louis Lee Haggin II, succeeded his father-in-law as Keeneland president and served as chairman of the Keeneland Association from 1970-’80.
Haggin’s sense of beauty, elegance, and refinement helped Keeneland Race Course become one of the most picturesque tracks in North America.
“Alma had a perceptive and instinctive eye for what is artistically and aesthetically correct for the Keeneland image,” said James E. “Ted” Bassett, former Keeneland Association chairman and president. “Whether the décor, landscaping, or the floral arrangements—that unique sense of grace and elegance has been what has made Keeneland so special and so memorable.”
“Mrs. Haggin created a living legacy that horsemen and guests can enjoy every time they visit Keeneland,” said Nick Nicholson, Keeneland’s president and chief executive officer. “So much of Keeneland’s beauty is a tribute to her quiet activism. For more than 60 years, she volunteered her time and considerable sense of style to perfect what today has become known as ‘the Keeneland look.’ “
Haggin’s son, Louis Haggin III, currently serves as a Keeneland director and trustee. Her sister, Alice Headley Chandler, owns Mill Ridge Farm in Lexington along with her husband, John.
Other survivors include daughters Martha Haggin Broadbent, Alma Haggin Ethington, and Anne Haggin (Russell) Graham, all of Lexington; brother Hal Price Headley Jr.; and sister, Patricia Headley Green, of Lexington.
Services will be held on Friday at 11 a.m. EST at First Presbyterian Church in Lexington. Interment will follow at the Lexington Cemetery. The W.R. Milward Mortuary on Broadway is handling arrangements.
Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund, 171 Market Street, Lexington, 40507 or Hospice of the Bluegrass, 2312 Alexandria Drive, Lexington, 40504.