Jerry Dove, 97, an accomplished all-around horseman, was born in Boyce, Virginia, the son of a very long line of professional horsemen. 

He began his equestrian career when he went to work in a hunt stable at 14 years old. 

He joined the U.S. Air Force and served for four years during World War II. 

He was discharged in Hawaii, where he stayed for several years and rode in unrecognized racing. He had a short career as a jockey on California racetracks. He also trained and showed reining horses in California. 

Much of his career was dedicated to the training of thoroughbred race horses as the farm trainer at the famous Old English Rancho stables in Sanger, California , from which he retired after 27 years. He then competed cutting horses in California, had a champion at Pomona and showed all over the west.

After moving to Green Creek, North Carolina, he became a dedicated member of the Green Creek Hounds, and volunteered as a road whip until the age of 96. 

He is survived by his wife, Joan MacIntyre Dove; and his stepdaughter, Jana Hinely. 

The family will have a private service at a later date. 

Condolences may be left at pettyfuneralhome.com.

 Petty Funeral Home & Crematory, Landrum