Pet Memorials

“Such short little lives our pets have to spend with us, and they spend most of it waiting for us to come home each day. It is amazing how much love and laughter they bring into our lives and even how much closer we become with each other because of them.” — John Grogan

I have been privileged over the years to work with so many kind, loving, and truly amazing families. I am truly grateful to have been able to help with the gentle passing of their companions and to have seen the love that these individuals have for them. Some of these families have been willing to share their stories of the love they have for their pets. The images and stories on this page are from the family members of beloved pets who care for them so much and miss them deeply.

Maximum “Sam” McCullough

Maximum Sam “Sam” was born on June 16th, 2013 and crossed over to go on an eternal walk with Jesus July 18th, 2024.

Sam was a great American dog and loved by all who met him. We will never forget the day we met “baby” Sam. The McCullough kids could not agree on much in those days at that young age but they all unanimously picked Sam to go home with us from his litter. He was funny, quirky and basically a human. He didn’t much care for other dogs but loved his people.

He was loved deeply. Our hearts break over losing Sam aka the Baby, Baby Sam, Wamby or Sambonita. While our hearts are fractured they are made whole quickly knowing that he is running, napping and barking in his purest and perfect form all while being petted and loved on by Jesus. It often seems God created animals to give us examples of our better selves.

Sam is survived by Lissie and Wayne McCullough Sr., his siblings Charlotte, Wayne Jr. and Amelia, “Colt” McCoy the cat as well as his furry cousins from the extended McCullough, Hunt Hayhurst, Crosswell, Barrow and Stone families. All his brothers and sisters formed deep and unique relationships with Sam. We once concluded that Sam may be the best man in Wayne Jr.s wedding. Charlotte and Millie were so kind and close with him… always making him happy and playing joyfully with him.

His coming into our life was a true gift from God. Bismark had an old German saying, “All good dogs go to heaven.” We are assured that when we all get to heaven there will be a little black Pomeranian poodle waiting for us and his tail will be wagging as he walks us through the pearly gates. Godspeed our little baby boy, until we meet again… 

- Wayne M.

Proverbs 12:10

A righteous man cares for his animals.

Genesis 6:18-19

God makes a covenant with “every living thing of all flesh.”

Isaiah 11: 6-7

The wolf will live with the lamb,

the leopard will lie down with the goat,

the calf and the lion and the yearling together;

and a little child will lead them.

7 The cow will feed with the bear,

their young will lie down together,

and the lion will eat straw like the ox.


In memory of Chia and the short but incredibly sweet 7 months we had together. His little existence has changed our home forever.

I adopted Chia on Friday, December 15, 2023 from a shelter and he immediately came into the family with small headbutts, trills, and so much love. At the time, he already had progressed CKD, but he was truly a gentle boy and we're thankful he trusted us to be his final home. He never once took out his claws, showed his teeth, or hissed. In our home, he was known for loving back pats, showing his tummy, attacking yarn, and cuddling every chance he got.

We didn't have long with Chia and we know little about his past journeys before he found us. He had white hairs around his neck, a collar mark that told us he had a previous home. He had been brought into the shelter as a stray. The smaller puzzle pieces in between are a mystery but through it all, he kept his gentle demeanor and trusting nature. I like to think of that as a testament to a life spent where he was truly loved.

Chia left on the morning of Sunday, July 21, 2024, peacefully and surrounded by family. His absence is felt deeply in every corner he loved to occupy, but we take solace in knowing that he is off on a journey to his final place of rest.

I love you forever, my Chia boy. Thank you for the most beautiful months of my life.

-Karen Z.

Butters Kusey passed away peacefully in the arms of his mom at his home on Friday, January 19, 2024. Butters was adopted by his mom on August 22, 2020. He was about 8 years old when he was adopted, and he and his mom had an amazing 3.5 years together. Butters had many nicknames, the most popular being "B," "Professor B" and "Mr. B."  His grandpa called him Professor B, and it fit his personality because he was so wise and taught so many great lessons. The best lesson he taught his mom was that taking a walk is the best part of the day. Butters went on a walk every single afternoon, unless it was pouring rain or freezing cold.  Butters would get so excited at the sight or sound of the leash, and even his mom putting on her walking shoes. Even at the end of his life when he was becoming weak, he was so excited to go on walks. He especially loved to chase squirrels. He was known for his prance, and people liked to point out how beautiful his prance was and how he walked like a show dog. Butters would get scared during thunderstorms, but his mom secretly liked it when he would want to get in bed and cuddle her for comfort. Butters and his mom were soulmates, and he truly was the love of her life. Butters was a true companion. He made bad days better with his unconditional love, and the good days even better with his wagging tail and wet kisses. He was so loyal and so sweet, and it shows by how many people loved him. Everyone who loves him takes comfort knowing that he is in Heaven with endless beautiful walking trails, lots of treats, and belly rubs. Butters was the definition of a "good boy." Butters will be missed dearly, but his memory will live on.

  • Kathleen K.

In loving memory of our dear Kiki, whose presence brought immeasurable joy into our lives. Born unexpectedly under a couch in east Dallas, she was a true gift from above. Kiki's journey began as the offspring of Vicki, a stray who found solace at our father's car dealership.

For five wonderful years, Kiki and Vicki graced the dealership with their comforting presence, endearing themselves to employees and customers alike. Kiki, with her playful spirit and infectious smile, became an integral part of our lives. When circumstances led to the sale of the dealership in 2015, we faced the difficult task of rehoming Kiki and Vicki.

Having returned from medical residency, I welcomed them into our home. Despite the challenges, Kiki seamlessly transitioned into domestic life, finding joy in car rides, walks, and moments of cuddling. Her intelligence shone through, never requiring a leash on walks and remaining loyal and loving to her core.

Kiki's endearing nature extended beyond our family; she could sense the emotions of those around her. Her favorite moments included walks by the lake, basking in the outdoors with her mother, Vicki, and spreading canine joy as a true people person.

When Kiki faced the battle against Lymphoma, she exhibited unwavering bravery. Throughout her treatment, she continued to share her infectious smile, finding strength even in sickness. Her passing on January 25, 2024, left a void in our hearts that time may never fully heal.

In her final moments, surrounded by those who cherished her most, Kiki found peace in the arms of her loving family and her devoted mother, Vicki. While the pain of her loss lingers, we take solace in the belief that we will one day reunite with our sweet angel, grateful for the immense joy she brought into our lives.

- Joseph K.

Bruno came into my life 14 years ago.

I found him at a small convenience store on the back roads in Mansfield. He was under the ice machine. 

When I got out the car to go into the store, he came out to me. It was love at first sight!

I asked the store clerk if Bruno belong to him and he thought Bruno had been dumped along with others. I didn't see any other puppies but there were other animals running around in the area.

I took Bruno with me and left my name and phone number with the clerk to give to whoever may be looking for him. No one ever called. From that day forward, it was just Bruno and me. He was super sweet and very protective right away.  He was a bundle of energy. 

When he wanted rubs, he would slide his head under your hands. He loved attention!

He always slept in the bed with me under the covers. When I was hot and kicked the blankets off, he would curl up in a ball next to my body. 

When I suffered from depression, Bruno would just lay next to me and give me loving nudges and kisses. He saw me at my best and worst, and still loved me.

I met lots of people because of Bruno. Whenever we were out walking he wanted to meet everyone! He really liked playing with other dogs but because he barked when he played some would not play with him. 

I'm all alone now that he is no longer here. 

I miss him more than anything.

I miss him waiting at the door for me when I return home from work. 

I miss him getting excited and turning around in circles when he see his friends or get treats.

I miss him chasing the squirrels and jumping at the falling leaves.

I miss him taking the paper towels out the bathroom trash can to shred to pieces.

I miss him running to the pine trees to sway his body along the lower branches.

He was my emotional support. 

I remind myself that he's at peace now and no longer in pain. I know grief has no time limit. I just need to take it one day at a time. I will get better because Bruno would hate to see me so sad or crying.

I love you forever Bruno! 

- Rita E.

Dear Odie, my boy so pure and curious, With eager eyes, You'll melt my heart, It's yours to keep forever. I'm struck by your intelligence, So perfectly balanced with mischief. A small, adventurous ball of energy, You've found me, and filled me with life. You'd draw a crowd with your athleticism, Who was this tiny star? They're laughing, clapping, cheering you on, The pup that could never be caught. I'm so proud of you as I watch their smiles, My baby, the star of the park, You'll collect hearts wherever you go, My Odie, a hoarder of love. And when you rest your head on my chest, Or bury your snout in my arm, Your sweet heart pours love into mine, And again, I'm a puddle, I'm yours. Without you, the days become dark, They're ridden of joy and of color. But my angel, I know, I will meet you again, I will find you in every world, I promise. Rest well my sweet boy, I'll miss you, and I'll think of you often, I'll remember your snuggles, your scent, and your love, Until we meet again.

November 5, 2010 - December 13, 2023

- Tam N.

We lost our sweet Diego almost a week ago. Diego joined our family almost 14 years ago when our then 3 year old daughter begged for a “black and white” puppy.  Diego was picked out of a litter of Shih Tzu puppies, he was the one with the sweetest playful personality.  Our daughter proudly named him Diego. (This was during her Dora the Explorer phase) Diego fit right into our family and even got along with our cat Papi.  He often found himself side by side with our daughter playing with her cars. Soon our fur family grew and Diego was the big brother of our bulldog Tank. Fast forward years later we added 2 female Yorkies and another bulldog, Master Guns.  During Diego’s final years he was patient with his fur siblings and knew when to separate himself from their playful banter. Diego was part of our lives and although we are trying to get used to our family life without him we take comfort knowing he’s at peace. There’s a definite part of the family missing and we will miss Diego greatly.

- Anita M.

I met Gabby for the first time 12 years ago, it was the same day that I met my future wife. I honestly can say that I can’t remember much of life before that and she’s been a part of every memory and milestone since that day. Everybody loved Gabby and I mean EVERYONE, she had so much love to give. She loved everything about life, snuggling in bed, going on trips, meeting new friends, chasing the neighborhood ducks, there wasn’t much Gabby wasn’t game for. I remember her little quarks like coming home from work to find her tail wagging, eyes squinted, and giant smile on her face or when she’d get excited and get the zoomies after taking a bath. When my daughter was born there was a whole new level of love unlocked. She was by her side at every moment wanting to be part of the action. She make the trip up the stairs every night for books before bed. It’s impossible to put into words the impact Gabby had on our lives and how much we loved being with her everyday. It was the hardest decision of my life having to say goodbye but it was her time and Dr Dolian made the process bearable with her kindness and compassion at the end. Gabby will forever be in our memories and I know we’ll be together again some day. RIP Gabby we love you so much and we’ll miss you every day of our lives.

- Vince D.

Mystique came into our lives shortly after her 2nd birthday. My first greyhound, an ex-racer, she was nervous about a lot of things at first, but always good with the cats, snuggly and lived for her walks twice a day. For the longest time, she would jump up and practically knock me over if I said the word “walk.” 

She quickly learned how to open doors and would let herself out if we went outside without her or if we were in the garage too long. She only did it to be with us though, never tried to get out on her own. She just wanted to be where we were. I loved coming home to her smiley sweet greeting every day. Watching how happy she was when we walked, on a mission to find good smells and tasty bunny rabbits. She had some of the funniest quirks, like being scared of things in the sky…she would freeze on a walk and I would have to pick up her front legs and do a little dance to loosen her up and get her going again if she saw a hot air balloon in the distance or even if the moon was too big that night. She was a great traveler, picky eater, bed hogger, sweet snuggle bug, lover of all who had scratches and treats to offer and so much more.

We miss her so much, but couldn’t be more grateful to have had her brighten up our days the past 7 of her 9 years.  

- Cyndi A.

In Memoriam: Ellie Long, January 2008 - August 2023. Sweet Ellie girl, who was adopted from DFW Cocker Rescue in 2011, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by love on Tuesday, August 22nd. She was the most beautiful, spirited and brave soul and her howling voice was like no other! It was an honor and blessing to be her mama. My love for her has no bounds and I will love her forever Rest peacefully my sweet angel girl. I carry your heart with me (I carry it in my heart).

- Susan L.

Sogum was a loving and kind dog who taught me how to be happy, how to love, and how to receive love. Unlike me, Sogum LOVED everyone. He loved saying hello to everyone we passed during our walks. He demanded bellyrubs from every stranger he met. He is the most friendly living being I have ever met! I am devastated and heartbroken that we have to be apart now, but I take comfort in knowing that he is at peace now. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. We will always cherish the memories that we have of him.

-Sujoeng

Angel Marie was originally adopted in February 2012 by my mom. In July 2014 when mom passed away Angel Marie came to live with me & my kitties. Angel Marie & my kitty Gracie Ann became best of friends right away. They would sleep in the crate together and when I would come home from work they would both want to go in the yard. Angel was not much of a watch dog, though she barked all the bunnies & kitties through the windows. Angel Marie loved everyone and would let you have the house if you give her a treat. She was always excited to see me when I would come home from work or anyone that came over to get a pet & lick you. She loved walks, running in the snow (we when got some) shaking her toys, chasing bunnies and of course her treats. Angel Marie was loved by so many myself, my niece and her husband, two of my best friends and my best next-door neighbor ever who has helped me these years that she’s lived with me. Angel Marie was an angel for me in another way because she represented my mom.  I would look at her and I could see my mom in her eyes. Angel is now running and playing with my mom & chasing the bunnies. I know I will see her again some day. 

We love you Angel Marie -

- Cara

Syd was the best, sweetest, cuddliest boy. He made us laugh and smile every day that he was in our home. We are very grateful for the time we had with him. We adopted him when he was 5 or 6 and we were at least his fourth family but lucky for us- we were his forever family. He was 13 or 14 when he passed. It’s always a difficult decision saying goodbye to a family member. Dr. Dolian was already our vet so when we found out she was switching gears in her career to specialize in at-home euthanasia we couldn’t think of anyone else we would trust as much to help us through this process. Dr. Dolian was kind, compassionate, and professional throughout the entire process. We would recommend Dr. Dolian to anyone looking to give their best friend a goodbye with love and dignity. Rest in peace Syd. We will never forget you and we will always love you very much.

-Gina V.

In this journey called life, there are few connections as pure and unconditional as the one we share with our animals. They become our companions, offering unwavering love, reflecting emotions back to us, holding space and teaching us invaluable lessons ultimately about the capacity of love that we can have within our own heart. I believe they come into our lives as gifts to us. 

This weekend, I had to say goodbye to my Mila, a true angel on Earth. For the past 10 and a half years, Mila has been my constant source of love, loyalty, and strength. The bond we shared was beyond words, and the experiences we had together were so unique and irreplaceable.

Mila, you were not just a pet; you were my baby. I strived to give you a life filled with so much love, affection, joy, and care. From day one, you’ve been by my side, such an independent spirit who never wavered. With you, I always felt grounded and at home, no matter where we were. I would have given anything to keep you by my side, to ensure your well-being and happiness for as long as possible.

Those lucky enough to know Mila during her prime would know her athleticism and agility. She had a passion for basketball and could play pretty good defense! While she may not have been fond of other dogs or many humans for that matter, those she accepted were blessed to feel her love, warmth, and strength. Throughout her lifetime, Mila showed me again and again resilience and strength, even until her final moments. I find myself now still going to check on her and wanting to feel her presence. I’m devastated, but I know that this transition, this journey into the next universe, wherever that may be, was necessary for her. She is now in a place of eternal peace.

And so, I release you, my sweet angel, acknowledging my ultimate duty as your pet owner. This is my final act of earthly love that is so very hard to do, allowing you to roam as a free spirit in the universe, free of pain and restrictions, embracing the boundless energy that flows through all living beings. Our bond and the unconditional love you showed me will forever remain within my heart. Though it’s shattered into a million pieces, my heart knows that our spirits will meet again, whether on this earth or in the great unknown. I will honor your memory and cherish the profound lessons you taught me with our brief time on earth together. I will always carry you in my heart.

In my final act of earthly love for Mila, I was fortunate to connect with Dr. Amanda Dolian, DVM, from Loving Goodbyes (940-268-6644). Dr. Dolian's compassionate presence and understanding made the difficult journey more bearable. In the comfort of my own home, surrounded by familiar scents and tranquility, I was able to say goodbye to Mila in the most peaceful and personal way. Holding her head, I whispered words of love and gently opened the door for her spirit to transcend. For anyone faced with this heart-wrenching decision, I wholeheartedly recommend reaching out for the support and solace they provide. The passing of a beloved companion can be transformed into a beautiful, serene experience.

Rest in peace, my sweet, sweet angel Mila. You will forever be my baby.

- Justine N.