30 Jun Our Mims Retirement Haven Mourns the loss of Theheartofdixie

Our Mims Retirement Haven in Paris, Kentucky mourns the loss of 27-year-old, Theheartofdixie (1996, Crafty Prospector/Heartlight). “Dixie” left this earth on June 30, 2023 due to the infirmities of old age.

She raced 13 times with 3 second place finishes and 3 third place finishes winning a total of $10,619.  In her broodmare career, she produced 9 babies; some by top sires such as Devil His Due, Bowman’s Band, Pure Prize and Stephen Got Even.

Dixie arrived at The Haven on September 19, 2019, and was everything you would imagine a Southern Belle would be.

Dixie’s former owners love her dearly and had placed her on our waiting list. When there was an opening, her owners brought her from Louisiana. We were told she could be a bit of a firecracker and didn’t always get along with others in her field, but she settled right in and there hadn’t been any problem with her during her time at the Haven.

Dixie worked her way up to being Kidnap Katie’s ‘right hand man’, became Katie’s best friend, and was second in charge of the herd.  An honor she carried proudly.  Dixie loved her treats, but didn’t care for carrots. But she certainly loved attention, and loved her fellow herd mates.  As Southern Belles do, Dixie made sure everyone minded their manners and adhered to Katie’s demands for the herd.

Pete Mirabito, OMRH President noted, “Dixie was the quintessential Thoroughbred.  Grace in stature and disposition.  Willing to work with you, but subservient to no being.  We should all go through life like that.”

Brinna Voss, OMRH employee said, “Dixie was one of the toughest horses I’ve ever met.  She was stubborn but sweet and cared for the herd immensely.  It won’t be the same without her here at Our Mims – we all miss her”.

Being a small sanctuary, any loss is always a huge loss, as each of the ladies get so much one-on-one time and attention.  The Ladies’ longevity is also a true testament to the love and care that all of the horses at the Haven receive.

After being cremated, Theheartofdixie will be laid to rest in the Haven’s Invincible Spirit cemetery alongside her friends that were lost before her.