AUSTIN, Texas -- Bevo XIV, Texas' famed longhorn mascot since 2004, died in his sleep Friday, according to the university.
Bevo XIV was retired Tuesday after receiving a preliminary diagnosis of bovine leukemia and was resting on his 250-acre ranch when he died.
"Bevo XIV was so much more than a traditional mascot. He was so big and strong, but he had such a sweet personality and a gentle soul," Ricky Brennes, executive director of the Silver Spurs Alumni Association and Bevo XIV's traveling partner, said in a statement. "He loved the attention that came with being Bevo but was very cool, calm and smart.