Ernest P Retamoza

July 3, 1943 – April 23, 2024

Ernest Philip Retamoza Sr., of Goshen, Kentucky, an esteemed figure in the thoroughbred racing community went to be with the Lord on April 23, 2024, at the age of 80. Born in Stockton, California, to the late Phillip William Retamoza and Lila Jenny Perez Retamoza, Ernest's passion for racing began in 1962 and spanned more than six decades.

Ernest started his racing career as a jockey, racing in New England, California, the Midwest, Canada, and Mexico. After retiring from race riding, he transitioned to training thoroughbreds, a profession he dedicated himself to for 45 years. His training stables, which moved from New York to Florida and various locales in between, were based in Kentucky in recent years. Ernest trained several graded stakes winners, including his highest-performing horses, Sunshine Always and Brindy Brindy.

Ernest is preceded in death by his brothers, Phillip Retamoza and Richard Retamoza. He leaves behind his wife of 36 years, Jane Retamoza; his children, Michelle (Kevin) Nash, Ernest (Mary Beth) Retamoza Jr., Nancy (Jeremy) Broyles, Clay (Nicolle) Martin, Victoria (Brandon) Scott; his grandchildren, Timothy, Bailey, Sean, Allie, CJ, Alaina, Ethan, Matthew, McKenzie, Isabella, Elijah, Elin, Lila; his great grandchildren, Hudson and Truett; and his brother, Fred Retamoza. His impact is felt by the thoroughbred racing community, additional family members, and many friends who were all touched by his loving nature, generosity, and friendly spirit.

A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 6500 St. Bernadette Ave., Prospect, Kentucky, followed by a reading of the eulogy at 11:30 AM in the Duncan Memorial Chapel at Floydsburg Cemetery, 5600 Old Floydsburg Rd, Crestwood, Kentucky, where he will be laid to rest. Visitation is scheduled for Monday, April 29, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Heady-Radcliffe Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 706 W Jefferson St, LaGrange, Kentucky, with a rosary service starting at 7:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Kentucky Racing Health & Welfare Fund, 422 Heywood Ave, Louisville, KY 40208, to honor Ernest’s lifelong commitment to the welfare of those within the racing industry.

Ernest's journey through life was marked by his dedication to his family, his robust spirit, his perseverance, and his contributions to the world of thoroughbred racing. His legacy will continue to inspire and resonate in the hearts of those he loved.