Joseph Anderson, former steward, dies

Joseph L. Anderson, a former state steward at Monmouth Park Racetrack, died at his home in Miami on Oct. 30. He was 91.

Born Nov. 19, 1919, in Washington, D.C., Anderson went to Kentucky at age 16 and became an exercise rider, breaking yearlings in addition. He rode in six races as a jockey before being drafted into the Army during World War II.

Following the War, Anderson returned to Kentucky, where he began a career as a trainer, owner, and breeder. Notable runners trained by Anderson include Guy, Junaluska, and Wedlock, with whom he captured the 1947 Kentucky Oaks.

Anderson later worked in many capacities at various racetracks, including horse identifier, paddock judge, placing judge, and eventually steward. When he retired in 1998, he was the oldest working steward in America.
 
Anderson is survived by his wife of 66 years, Evelyn; a daughter, Ginger Tatum; a granddaughter, Maryann Tobin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations to the South Florida Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals' Horse Rescue fund at www.helpthehorses.org or to Sunrise Presbyterian Church, 18440 NW 68th Ave., Hialeah, Fla., 33015.