The turkey is mourning the loss of well-known Dr. Lynn Bagley, who passed away on January 24, 2024.

Lynn grew up in the turkey industry in Utah with his family who grew turkeys. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Utah State University, master’s degree from Brigham Young University and his Ph.D. from North Carolina State University. During his studies at University of Utah, he had an internship with Nicholas Turkey Breeding Farms and hoped to someday work for the company, which he later did in 2000.

Lynn held many leading positions in the turkey industry. He served as a research and development director, director of hatcheries, and director of live production with many organizations. Lynn excelled in all these leading positions and was invited to speak at many industry seminars and technical schools. He loved to do research with turkeys, and for the last few years, he was finishing out his career conducting turkey research for Tyson Foods before planning to retire September of this year.

Lynn was a globally known, respected expert in fertility and hatchability of turkey eggs. He traveled the world to share his expertise and knowledge.

Aviagen noted in a tribute to Lynn: “We had the honor to have Lynn as a speaker and educator at the Aviagen Turkeys Hatchery Schools in 2019 and 2022 and the Breeder School in 2023. Lynn willingly gave of his time to join us at both of these events to share his knowledge and experience with the students and staff. Following his talks at these schools, multiple students commented that he had such valuable information and presented in such a relatable way that they could have listened to him all day.”

The company added, “He always made himself available to work with the students one on one and answer any questions that would help them in their turkey industry careers.”

Lynn enjoyed spending time with his wife Marilyn, who traveled with him often, and their five children. He was very active in his church, and loved sports, especially football. Though Lynn kept very busy leading up to his retirement, he made time for being involved in his church and traveling to visit his children.

“To Dr. Bagley we extend our deepest gratitude for his friendship, eagerness to teach and serve the turkey industry, and his profound knowledge that he so willingly shared. He touched many lives and will be greatly missed,” Aviagen said.