Obituaries

Baker Snell was a rescue dog from St. Simons Island whom I reluctantly agreed to foster in January 2008 when my friend, Jay Thompson asked. He chewed my shoes, gnawed my rugs, barked at everyone and stole my heart. He loved everyone except HE WHO CARRIES MAIL and formed lifelong friendships with all who met him and those who cared for him during my travels and injuries. He had so much love to share beginning with me (primary mom, and continuing on to his second mom, Pam Pearson, and other roommates Sarah Goodwin and Caroline Payant. I am especially grateful to these caretakers as well as to Sarah Kegley and her cats, and her dog, Piedmont, and friend June Deen and sister Kim Snell.

Baker was known for many things, mostly admirable. He was as fast as a greyhound and was an avid squirrel chaser, catching at least 4 that I observed in Candler Park, his most beloved stomping grounds. He enjoyed countless trips to his birthplace where in his youth he ran circles around other dogs at the beach, chased seagulls and explored the dunes. We are grateful to our St. Simons friends Jay Thompson, Mimi Skelton and Rose Wilson. He was also a fan of north Georgia where he accompanied me and others on long walks in the woods. Once while walking on a wooded path in Ellijay, we came across 3 coyotes about 15 yards ahead, but Baker didn’t chase them-he knew his place was to stay with me as my protector (they ran off). Baker went on one airplane adventure with Cynthia East to visit me one weekend the summer I was living in Greenwich Village (a total surprise for me). He liked walking in Manhattan and he enjoyed his first dog park at Washington Square.

In fact, he was pretty much perfect except for fiercely protecting his moms from postmen and utility workers and his penchant for finding ancient food items on our many walks through Candler Park as well as deciding other people’s trash was really his treasure.

Baker enjoyed participating at the annual December Atlanta Botanical Garden Reindog Parade where he sported whatever elf/Santa/holiday costume Debra dressed him in. He also delighted his social media fan base with his annual Halloween costume. Baker was a most special dog, a true gentleman and a scholar of treats.

So, Baker, thank you for the countless hours of entertainment, joy, love, and laughter you provided us. Life was bigger and better with you in it.

I mourn his loss but am grateful for the 14 years we shared as true companions and for teaching me the lessons of living each day with joy, freely giving unconditional love and remaining forever loyal to those whom you love. Rest in power my Baker.