Co-founder of Barnstable Brown Derby Eve Gala dies at 94

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The matriarch and co-founder of the Barnstable Brown Gala, Wilma Haverly Barnstable, died at the age of 94.

After Barnstable retired from teaching, she co-founded the famed Barnstable Brown Derby Eve Gala with her daughters.

Condé Nast calls the Barnstable Brown Gala one of the best parties in the country, and tickets often sell out for the Highlands event that celebrities attend each year.

IMAGES | A look inside the 2022 Barnstable Brown Derby Eve Gala

"She worked tirelessly maintaining bank accounts, preparing tax returns, and selling tickets and sponsorships," her obituary reads. "Through her efforts, the gala has raised and donated over $17 million to establish and support the Barnstable Brown Diabetes Center at UK Healthcare."

Her son said she was the "heart and soul" of the gala, and became the confidant of a "bewildering list of corporates titans and celebrities all for the purpose of raising money for diabetes."

Her family said she was making plans for next year's Barnstable Brown Derby Eve Gala and the center this past week.

"Her happiest days were spent with them at family dinners and, especially, at the Derby Gala," according to her obituary.

Her visitation will take place on Sunday, Nov. 6, in Lexington with a 1 p.m. with a "brief service" following at 2 p.m.

She leaves behind her four children: Patricia Barnstable Brown, Priscilla Barnstable, Barbara Barnstable Edelman, and Dale Barnstable Jr, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

The family asks for donations to be made in Barnstable's honor to the Barnstable Brown Diabetes Center here.

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