Country singer Toby Keith remembered by friends and business partners across Central Kentucky

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - People around the nation mourn the loss of Country music star Toby Keith, who died at the age of 62.

“I was proud to be his partner and his friend. He had a great family. It’s just a really sad day today,” said Chris Baccari, Bloodstock Agent and the Seclusive Farm Owner.

Country music legend Toby Keith was known around the world for his hits like “Should’ve been a Cowboy,” “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” and “Red Solo Cup.”

But here in Lexington, he was known for his talents in the horse racing and breeding industry.

“You’d be surprised but he knew everything about different bloodlines. He’d quiz you about this or that. I’d say, ‘Wow Toby you know all your stuff.’ He studied it. He had so much enthusiasm for our game and wanted to get other people in our sport.”

Chris Baccari and Keith started their own racing stable together just last year. But the two became close friends many years before that.

“He had this calming effect with people. You know, veterans would come up if we were at dinner. He’d sit down with them and take that time with them. The really appreciated that,” Baccari said.

“He was a big-hearted guy. He had money and could help. He sent a lot of horses to trainers in Oklahoma City who were down on their luck. He spread those horses around so those guys knew they had horses in their barn and knew they were going to get paid. He cared about the industry and he cared about the people,” said Mark Toothaker.

Keith also owned many horses at Spendthrift Farm, where Mark Toothaker runs the stallion division. Who said for such a big celebrity, he was one of the most down-to-earth people you’d ever meet.

“He’d have his Carhartt on and sock cap on. If you didn’t know who he was, you’d think he was just another guy out there looking at horses. He was very approachable. Most of the girls in our office out at Spendthrift got a picture with him out at the sales. You know, we were all talking about that this morning.”

Toothaker said Keith was a family man first and foremost. He wore his heart on his sleeve and was known for sharing his opinions freely. And for those that knew him well, they’d just say:

“Hey that’s Toby. He was so good for the game. And just a great, great American.”

Keith had been battling stomach cancer for a few years before he passed with his family by his side, according to a statement posted to his social media.