During a peaceful stroll through Kiroli Park in West Monroe, Louisiana, Zach Medlin stumbled upon a discovery that warmed his heart. Among the fallen leaves and pine needles, a small, square gravestone caught his eye. While his one-eyed Staffordshire terrier, Serena, chased ducks near the lake, Medlin approached the stone and carefully cleared the pine straw covering its inscription.
The Story of Buddie
The marker told the tale of Buddie, 1928–1941: “Born a dog and died a gentleman.” Medlin paused, struck by the love and dedication in those words. He wondered why such a cherished companion had been laid to rest in a public park spanning 160 acres.
Reflecting on the Great Depression, he thought about the comfort Buddie must have provided his family during difficult times. Medlin noted, “Knowing that Buddie provided comfort to his owners during hard times is truly heartening. All dogs deserve a grave marker.”
Legendary or Loyal?
Local stories suggested that Buddie once served as a mascot for a Boy Scout summer camp and even barked heroically to alert Scouts of a drowning boy. Yet further research offered a quieter, yet equally touching, story.
A 1993 handwritten note by Mrs. Dee Strickland, found on Findagrave.com, revealed that Buddie belonged to Mr. and Mrs. Albert H. Jones of Monroe. Strickland explained that Buddie, a beloved Irish Setter, often accompanied the family to the park for exercise. After his passing, they buried him there simply because the park was a cherished place for the family.
A Lasting Tribute
Whether Buddie’s legacy lies in heroic deeds or in steadfast loyalty, one truth stands out: he was an extraordinary dog. His gravestone remains a lasting tribute to his life, celebrating loyalty, courage, and love.
Medlin’s discovery reminds us that even ordinary places can hold extraordinary stories. Buddie’s resting place in Kiroli Park now serves as a poignant reminder of the bond between humans and their four-legged companions, inspiring everyone who stumbles upon this hidden piece of history.