In Memoriam

by Syd Sullins

It was with great sadness that we recently learned that our long time Ranch volunteer, Jerry Smith, passed away on December 31st.

Jerry and his beloved Jayne were some of the original Ranch hands. They were regular weekend volunteers who started the tradition of our Sunday Soup for the dogs - which now we give them everyday. Jerry constantly researched the ingredients he would put into his Sunday concoction, trying to find a mixture that was healthiest for the dogs and still would make them happy. I mistakenly called it “Sunday Slop” one time, and I don’t think that won me any points with Jerry!

Jerry and his “Jayner” were the perfect example of a loving couple; they were so devoted to each other. They often made room in their loving home for ''special'' Ranch dogs to foster. They were the long term fosters for one of our “tripods” and they gave him amazing care.

I remember one day Jerry told me the story of when he met Jayne. He asked her out for a picnic and she was hesitant about getting involved. He said to her, “I’m just asking you to go on a picnic - not to marry me!”. Well, I believe that picnic panned out just as he had hoped.

All of us who had the privilege of knowing this beautiful couple send our love to Jayne.