Cattle Industry Mourns Loss of Lia Biondo
July 26, 2025
It is with incredible sadness that the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association shares the sudden and tragic news of the passing of our dear friend and former colleague, Lia Biondo. Lia lost her life doing what she loved most… riding horses with friends in Montana on July 24, 2025.
Lia served the USCA in many capacities, including as our Director of Federal Policy and later as Executive Vice President. Her unwavering commitment, fearless leadership, and determined spirit left an indelible mark not only on our Association, but on the broader cattle industry and all who had the privilege to know her. Lia was – and will always remain – at the heart of the USCA Family.
Lia’s journey into the cattle industry was uniquely her own. Though she did not grow up immersed in ranching traditions, she was a proud horsewoman from Michigan whose passion for the cattle industry burned fiercely. She was never one to back down from a challenge, always approached her work with boldness, and fought fiercely for the causes she believed in. Lia poured her heart and soul into advocating for U.S. cattle producers and brought an energy and authenticity that inspired everyone around her.
To honor Lia’s memory and her steadfast belief in supporting women in agriculture, Western Skies Strategies, where Lia worked for almost a decade, will be establishing a scholarship in her name. The scholarship will support women pursuing education in agriculture and natural resources, a nod to Lia’s own bold journey. In lieu of flowers and as a remembrance to Lia, donations to this scholarship may be mailed to WSS at 100 North 27th St., Suite 600 D, Billings, MT 59101; checks may be payable to Western Skies Strategies, please ensure that the note field states, “In memory of Lia”. More details on the scholarship will be shared as they are finalized.
A memorial service celebrating Lia’s life will be held on July 29th at 6:00pm, at the home of Jess Peterson, 4030 Thunder Ridge Road, Billings, Montana. All are welcome – and we know Lia would have loved to see a few cowboy hats in the audience as we gather to remember her.
We invite you to keep Lia’s loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. From all of us at the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association, thank you for joining us in honoring the legacy of a woman who truly made a difference.
Source: USCA
