Kaitlin Renee Gilhooly (2006-2022)
Kaitlin Renee Gilhooly, an alleged PBGV, my girly-girl has crossed the bridge.
Death
Not Immortals
(Originally posted in August. Updated.) RIP Charlie Watts. We saw the Rolling Stones in Houston in 2019. It was the first time I had seen the Stones live, which is just insane, except I was really a Beatles person growing up. We had tickets to see them in Dallas this year, but we actually skipped … Read more
RIP
There are many phrases I never thought I would write, and one of them was, “Well, now I’ve been to a funeral on Facebook Live.” My cousin Joey Koch died from COVID-19 this week and his funeral Mass was in D’Hanis this morning. There were actually more people at the service than I expected. Most … Read more
Ashes to Ashes (A Progressive Wake)
My final request (one of them.)
Murphy James Gilhooly, 2006-2019
Murphy James Gilhooly was my puppy for almost thirteen years. As much as Ripley was supposed to be my dog, Murphy was my dog. It is very difficult to say “goodbye.” However, today we had to do so. We met Murphy after an East Lake Pet Orphanage Advisory Board meeting in early 2006. He was … Read more
Funeral Rites (for a Rat)
Dearly Beloved, We are gathered here today, to remember our brother rat. He died as he lived his life, On the patio, and in the yard. Place rat gently in the pooper scooper. Please forgive his brother Chihuahua, Who really just wanted a new fuzzy toy. As we process to his resting place, We commit … Read more
Death Shake
It occurred to me this evening that “Death Shake” would be a good adult ice cream drink or perhaps a dance for heavy metal fans. However, it’s also how a Chihuahua helps dispatch its victims after catching them. Why would I think such a strange thing? It’s been a long evening. I have managed to … Read more
A Eulogy, Of Sorts
My brother-in-law Jack passed away just over a week ago. His services were this week, so it has been a little bit insane around here. We’ve had enough deaths in the family and extended family over the past few years where the rituals all seem very familiar, but not any less painful. Call the funeral … Read more
A year ago
One year ago today, my Dad passed away. His was one in a series of deaths that happened in rapid succession, so when I went back to look at my blog post about it, I realized I never wrote one. I think I set up his memorial website (http://www.johnvgilhooly.com) and linked it on Facebook, and … Read more
Pets
I’ve never been able to understand people who think any deceased person can immediately be replaced with a dog. Perhaps it’s because I’ve spent twelve years in and around animal rescue, but the worst possible gift for anyone is a living being that requires constant care and feeding. It is the gift that keeps on … Read more