Keith Maddox Posthumously Receives Award

The inaugural Barry Corbin Award for Grit and Generosity will be presented to the family of the late Keith Maddox next month at the 37th Annual Roundup for Autism.

The Roundup for Autism, presented by the Winch Ranch, will be held Sept. 21 at River Ranch in the Fort Worth Stockyards.

Keith Maddox

Maddox is being honored posthumously for his support of the Roundup for Autism as a board member and sponsor and for his professional and personal contributions to the Western community, said Bobby Norris, founder of the Roundup for Autism.

“Keith Maddox, for decades, was deeply involved in this … always the first to offer help in any way he could,” Norris said. “Beyond his contributions to the Roundup for Autism, Keith was a mentor and supporter to hundreds of cowgirls and cowboys, making countless contributions to the rodeo community. It was an honor to call him my friend.”

Popular film and TV actor Barry Corbin is a native Texan who has been actively involved with the Roundup for Autism. “In addition to being a good friend for many years and a consistent Roundup celebrity chair and participant, Barry Corbin has dedicated so much of his time and resources to the Roundup for Autism over the past 37 years. It’s only fitting to establish an award in his honor,” Norris said.“I am deeply honored that Keith Maddox will be the first recipient of the Barry Corbin Grit & Generosity Award,” Corbin said. “Keith was a tireless supporter of the Roundup for Autism from the beginning, and I loved spending time with him. I always admired Keith for his business sense, and even more for his generosity and dedication to helping others. Keith’s contributions left an indelible mark not only in Texas but on the international Western community, and this award is a testament to his enduring legacy.”

Maddox began his Western journey on his family’s ranch, competing in rodeo events from a young age and turning professional before 18. After graduating from Eastern Oregon University in 1971, he built a successful career in the Western industry with prominent companies like Tony Lama.

With his wife Susan, Maddox established The Best Hat Store in the historic Stockyards in 1996 and later revived the American Hat Company, overcoming significant setbacks including a devastating fire in 2005. His dedication to his craft and unwavering spirit earned him a revered place in the western community, defined by his significant contributions to the industry and the countless lives he touched with his kindness and generosity. His story is a testament to perseverance, hard work and a commitment to helping others.

Corbin’s noted acting credits include the TV series Northern Exposure as well as roles in Lonesome Dove, No Country for Old Men, WarGames and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. He was honored by the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum for his contributions to Western films and television.

Barry Corbin (left) and Bobby Norris (Photo courtesy Roundup for Autism)