LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WHAS11) – The beloved wife of 15-time champion jockey Corey Lanerie has died, according to Churchill Downs officials.
Shantel Lanerie was battling stage 1 breast cancer and had been undergoing chemotherapy. She was admitted to the hospital Thursday to treat a severe infection.
Shantel passed away Friday. She was 42.
A Louisiana native, Shantel was known around the track for her style and hospitality. Officials said her Cajun cooking was a staple for family and friends after the races.
Shantel was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year and was one of 144 women who walked in the Survivors Parade on Oaks Day.
Jockeys wore pink "Fight With Shantel" bands to rally behind her.
Churchill Downs released a statement late Friday:
“The Churchill Downs family is devastated by the sudden passing of Shantel Lanerie,” said Churchill Downs Racetrack President Kevin Flanery. “This is a very sad day. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Corey, Brittlyn, family members and numerous friends as they endure this extremely difficult time. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.”
In addition to Corey and Brittlyn, Shantel is survived by her mother and father, Katie and Riley Hebert; brother Rylan Hebert; and mother-in-law and father-in-law Debbie and Gerald Lanerie.
Plans for memorial service in Louisville have not yet been announced.
