From Indiana barns to show rings around the world…
Once in a generation, someone comes along who changes how we see the Jersey cow—and how we see each other. That was Ronnie Lee Mosser, 77, whose deep cow sense was matched only by his profound kindness.
The Quiet Strength Behind a Confident Smile
You could spot Ronnie in any show ring. Hat tipped just enough to catch his eyes, clipboard in one hand, and that steady grin that spoke louder than any call on the mic. He didn’t just judge Jerseys—he read them. Every set of legs, every udder, every walk through the ring was, to him, a story: a testament to the breeder’s patience, the family behind the barn, and the promise that the Jersey breed still carries bright into the future.
Beginning January 7, 2002, Ronnie joined the American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) as a Type Traits Appraiser, eventually earning promotion to Senior Appraiser in August 2008. Over two decades, he logged thousands of miles appraising more than 158,700 Jersey cows across the country before transitioning to part-time in March 2022. His steady work ethic and deep cow sense made him a cornerstone of the AJCA classification program—setting a standard not just for how to evaluate cattle, but for how to live with purpose.
More Than a Job—A Calling
Ronnie’s passion carried him far beyond Indiana, where he served as field representative for both Indiana and Kentucky Jersey breeders. He judged shows at every level—across the U.S. and internationally in Canada, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, and Argentina—and stood in center ring at events like the National Jersey Jug Futurity and the Premier National Junior Jersey Show. He taught AJCA classification methods to appraisal teams around the world, spreading the gospel of good type and honest evaluation.
Yet, even on the biggest stage, he never lost sight of the cows—or the kids—who made it all matter. As a regular ringman for All American Jersey events and national sales, Ronnie brought energy and expertise that elevated every event he touched.
Lessons from Pleasant Ridge
At his home farm in Geneva, Pleasant Ridge Jerseys became more than a breeding operation—it was a testament to family values and Jersey excellence. The farm regularly sponsored All-American classes, supporting youth and the broader Jersey community. Their cattle earned consistent recognition, including Pleasant Ridge Kid Rock Ella, who claimed Junior Champion and first fall yearling at the 2024 All-Americans.
Behind every ribbon was a simple truth Ronnie repeated often: “Good cows come from good people.” He believed that sound breeding decisions and sound character always walked hand in hand.
And he lived that wisdom daily—through early mornings, late nights, and countless conversations in barn alleys, show pens, and sale rings. Summers found him on the fair circuit with his grandchildren, passing on not just show techniques but life lessons. If you stayed long enough, Ronnie would leave you with more than advice. He’d leave you believing in yourself.
He is survived by his wife and children, who continue the tradition at Pleasant Ridge, carrying forward his love of the breed and the values he instilled.
Voices from the Jersey Family
In the days following his passing, hundreds from around the world shared memories that painted the same picture: a man who made everyone feel valued, welcomed, and inspired.
“Ronnie had a way of making you feel like you mattered. Every time I talked to him, I walked away smiling.”
“He was more than a judge—he was family to anyone who loved a Jersey cow.”
“I first met Ronnie at the All American in Louisville in 1978. I thought he was a rockstar, but he quickly became a friend I could call my own.”
“What he loved more than the little brown cow was his family.”
Across continents, from 4-H barns to show arenas, people remember his laughter, his fairness, and the way he brightened every barn alley he entered. As one friend said simply, “Another great one is gone—but what a gift it was to know him.”
The Man Who Made You Feel Seen
Ask anyone who crossed paths with Ronnie, and you’ll hear it: he had a way of making you feel seen. Whether you were a first-year showman or a seasoned breeder, he met you with respect and patience. He could give correction without sting and encouragement without fanfare. His honesty was as solid as his handshake—and just as memorable.
Carrying His Legacy Forward
Ronnie’s passing leaves a silence in the Jersey community, but his lessons continue to speak. They echo in the rhythm of the milking parlor, in the steady hand of young appraisers he trained, and in every show ring where the next generation steps forward to do things the right way.
He taught us that excellence isn’t about chasing banners—it’s about grace, grit, and gratitude.
Ronnie Mosser lived those values to the last mile. And though the clipboard is laid down, his voice still travels with us all—steady, fair, and kind.
Lessons from Ronnie’s Life
- Respect Before Recognition: He valued people more than positions, and cows more than competition.
- Integrity in Every Call: Whether scoring one of his 158,700 cows or guiding a youth, his fairness defined him.
- Legacy in Mentorship: He measured success not by ribbons earned, but by confidence built in others.
Service Information: The Mosser family will receive friends on Friday, October 24, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Downing & Glancy Funeral Home, 100 N. Washington St., Geneva, IN. Additional service details will be announced. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the American Jersey Cattle Association Youth Programs or a charity of your choice.
The Bullvine joins the Mosser family, the AJCA, and breeders everywhere in celebrating a man whose work made cows better—and people stronger.
