08/22/2024
Coal Stringer, October 12, 2011 – August 21, 2024
A Piece of Our Hearts
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our precious Coal. She had been a member of our family for nearly 13 years and letting her go was so hard even though we know it is what was best for her.
Santa brought Coal to us a couple of weeks before Christmas 2011. We tossed around names like Duchess (my favorite) and Snowflake (Nina’s favorite). However, the pup was Santa’s gift to Wes who named her because she was black as a chunk of Coal.
Coal was brilliant and sneaky and gentle and loyal and an excellent communicator. She brought so much joy and love to our lives, examples that could fill bookshelves. Even when her time with us was coming to a close, she gave us wonderful memories to cherish.
Coal’s last day was full of hugs, FaceTime visits, her favorite foods, stories where she was the star, prayers and tears. We talked about the Rainbow Bridge where her best buddy Oliver was waiting for her. We told her not to be afraid because we would see her again, too.
When we got to the office, Coal walked in the grass until she found the perfect spot to sit and enjoy the sunshine. For the first time in days, she lifted her head and ears, alert to the world and those around her. As she took it all in, we knew she was at peace. Never one to like her picture taken, Coal allowed us to take many as we tried to capture her beautiful spirit, some with us trying to smile through our tears. Then, when she was ready, Coal got up and led us to the office for her last visit.
Coal was surrounded by those she loved as our dear friend, Dr. Trey Fuller, allowed us all to be a family as we helped Coal cross the Rainbow Bridge.
Our home is full of quiet now and empty places where Coal should be. We know in time the ache will ease but never fully leave. Coal took with her a piece of our hearts that we gladly gave. She will always be with us, of course. A love like ours is everlasting.
Dr. Fuller told us that one day Coal will send us a puppy which made us laugh, a little afraid of Coal’s sense of humor. But one thing is certain, our hearts will expand but nothing will ever replace Coal. She will forever be our Number 1.
Nina Stringer King Nella Stringer Natalie Stringer Dorsey Robin Dixon Stringer