Ivory, June

June Bull Ivory, born June 17, 1931, worked tirelessly for decades with her late husband, Hall of Famer Buster Ivory, to make rodeo bigger and better. Outspoken and opinionated, Ivory’s best quality was her big heart. She never failed to help a friend in need and was someone who could meet any challenge. Ivory thrived in nearly every facet of the rodeo business. She worked for many of the great stock contractors and was a secretary and timer at all the major rodeos. The Texas cowgirl unloaded the first horse at the first National Finals Rodeo in 1959. Ivory had a flair for colorful and flashy attire and often carried the American flag during opening ceremonies. She was the first woman ever saluted in a Justin advertisement. Ivory developed the judges’ sheets and organized the first secretary school in 1968. Always an organizer, she helped put together the NFR Ladies Day and today coordinates the annual Cowboy Reunion. “I always wanted to be a rodeo glamour gal and rodeo secretary,” she said. “My dreams came true. I had a great life and wouldn’t change one thing.” She was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 2004.