Russell deCordova

Bull Rider & Cattleman

Russell Irvin deCordova was part of a Texas story that began long before he was born, a story rooted in ranching, land, and the kind of grit that helped shape the state itself. The deCordova family traces its Texas heritage back to Jacob Raphael de Cordova, who arrived in the Republic of Texas in 1837 and became one of the most influential land agents and surveyors of his era. Jacob mapped and sold vast tracts of Texas, helped found towns, and left a permanent mark on the landscape. The community of DeCordova, Texas in Hood County and the De Cordova Bend area along the Brazos River both carry the family name today, reflecting the deep imprint the family made on the region.

Generations of deCordovas continued that legacy through ranching, livestock marketing, and mercantile businesses across Central Texas. Russ was born into that tradition on May 4, 1957, and carried it forward with a quiet pride. He grew up in the cattle industry, learning early that the business ran on relationships, trust, and the value of a handshake. Those principles guided him throughout his life and became the foundation of his own career.

During high school in Guymon, Oklahoma and while attending Panhandle State University, Russ spent his weekends and summers working at Hitch Feedlot riding pens. He fed his first pen of cattle at sixteen, and it was during those years at Hitch that he met cutting horse trainer Ronnie Rice, who sparked his passion for cutting horses. He attended Panhandle State University on both a cattle judging scholarship and a rodeo scholarship riding bulls. In his senior year he won the region in bull riding and qualified for the College National Finals in Bozeman, Montana.

Russ became a respected figure in the Texas livestock world, known for his integrity, sharp judgment, and ability to connect with people from every corner of the industry. Alongside his longtime work with Superior Livestock, he partnered with his sons Cody and Ty to build and operate Buffalo Livestock Marketing in Buffalo, Texas. Many days began with cattle lined up down the road and Russ greeting every seller with a handshake and a thank you. Many evenings ended in Fort Worth, helping customers market their cattle the Superior way and mentoring young representatives who were eager to learn the business the right way.

His passion for livestock extended beyond the sale ring. Russ spent more than 30 years in the cutting horse industry, competing in the Non Pro division and earning numerous championships along the way. His greatest joy in the sport came from breeding and raising his own show horses, a craft that blended patience, instinct, and a natural feel for good horses.

While he built a respected career, Russ’s world always revolved around his family. He and his wife, Debbie, created a close knit, lively family that continues the ranching and cattle legacy today. His three children, Amie, Cody, and Ty, and his eight grandchildren were his greatest joy. Whether showing cutting horses with grandsons Charles Russell and Will, watching steers and goats with Gracie, Peyton, and Tylar, cheering Wesley at sporting events, or heading to the tee ball field for Colt and Ellie, Russ was never far from the stands. He took as much pride in their wins as he did in any championship he earned himself.

Across every part of his life, Russ carried forward the deCordova tradition, a Texas lineage built on land, livestock, hard work, and a deep sense of responsibility to the people around you. He upheld the values passed down through generations and added his own chapter to a family history that helped shape entire communities.

The Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame proudly recognizes Russell deCordova for his lifelong dedication to the Texas cattle industry, his leadership, his family legacy, and his contributions to the traditions that define our state.