Veach Family Farming: A True Team Effort
Farming is a full-family commitment for the Veach family. From planting and spraying to harvest, everyone pitches in to keep things running smoothly.
Billy Veach has farmed his entire life, learning the ropes alongside his dad, “Big” Joe Veach. As he grew older, it became clear that farming wasn’t just a job — it was his passion and the life he wanted to build.
Billy’s wife, Brittney, balances a full-time job while still playing a vital role on the farm. Whether she’s delivering meals and fuel to the fields, picking up parts, seed, chemicals, or anhydrous tanks, she’s always on the move. When help is short, she jumps in wherever needed — driving the tractor or grain cart to keep things moving.
Together, Billy and Brittney are raising three hardworking kids: Maverick, Connor, and Oaklynn. After school and sports, the kids are often right there in the fields helping out. Late nights and field-side dinners are just part of life, and it’s something the family has come to cherish.
Farming isn’t just a livelihood for the Veach family — it’s a way of life built on teamwork, dedication, and showing up for one another.
Caring for Brain Health on the Farm
When asked how they take care of their brain health, Brittney shared simple, practical habits that help during long and demanding seasons.
Write it down. Keep a notebook for crop notes and how you’re feeling. Even one line helps.
Focus on what you can control. You can’t change the weather, but you can prepare your soil, check your equipment, and stay ready.
Talk to people. Call a neighbor, chat with another farmer, or vent to someone who understands.
Track progress visually. Charts or posters showing crop stages help you see growth and keep perspective.
Use tractor time wisely. Listen to music, podcasts, or enjoy the quiet — it’s okay to zone out.
Eat with family. Even during busy seasons, sitting down together keeps you grounded — even if it’s in the field.
Celebrate little wins. First sprouts, good rain, or a smooth harvest all matter.
Remember your “why.” You’re feeding people, raising strong kids, and caring for the land.
What Better Brain Health in Rural Communities Means to Them
To the Veach family, better brain health in rural communities looks like:
Talking to someone instead of bottling it up
Taking breaks, even short ones
Resting your mind through music, quiet time, or prayer
Knowing your limits and asking for help
Staying connected with family, neighbors, and other farmers
Remembering your “why” — feeding people, raising kids, and caring for the land
I want to thank Brittney for sharing their family’s wisdom. I appreciated the simplicity of her words and know they will reach someone who needs them — including myself. I was especially moved by how their family makes time for one another, even in the midst of life’s chaos. Slowing down to eat dinner together, even in the field, is a powerful reminder of what grounds us.
Stories like the Veach family remind us that the strength in rural communities comes from teamwork, connection, and taking care of one another — both in the field and beyond.
