It was a crisp, cold day in West Monroe, Louisiana, when Zach Medlin and his dog Serena took their usual stroll through Kiroli Park. But what started as an ordinary walk soon turned into an unforgettable moment.
Amidst the scattered pine needles and fallen leaves, Zach noticed something unusual—a stone peeking through the forest floor. Curious, he brushed away the debris to reveal a gravestone. The sight stopped him in his tracks.
The inscription read:
“Buddie, 1928–1941. Born a dog / Died a gentleman.”
Zach couldn’t help but wonder: who was Buddie, and why was he buried here, in the heart of a 160-acre public park?
Zach imagined the kind of life Buddie must have lived. The date on the stone meant this dog had been around during the Great Depression—a challenging time for everyone, even pets. “It warms my heart to know Buddie carried his owners through those hard years,” Zach said. “All dogs deserve a grave marker.”
But Buddie wasn’t just any dog. Local legends claim Kiroli Park was once a Boy Scout camp, and Buddie was their beloved mascot. One story even describes how Buddie heroically saved a boy from drowning in the park’s lake. His barks alerted others, and they managed to rescue the boy just in time.
Yet, like all legends, this tale has its skeptics. Lora Peppers, a local historian, uncovered an entirely different backstory. While digging through old records, she came across a handwritten note from 1993. It revealed Buddie belonged to Mr. and Mrs. Albert H. Jones, who lived nearby in the 1930s. According to the note, Buddie, a stunning Irish Setter, often visited Kiroli Park with Mr. Jones. When Buddie passed away, the Jones family decided the park—his favorite place—was the perfect resting spot.
Whether Buddie was a heroic lifesaver or simply a loyal companion, one thing is clear: he was deeply loved. His gravestone stands as a touching tribute to a dog who made a mark on the world, big or small.
Next time you visit a park or take a walk with your own furry friend, remember Buddie. Share his story, honor his memory, and reflect on the unbreakable bond we share with our pets. Who knows—maybe you’ll uncover a story of your own.
So, what’s the most heartwarming discovery you’ve made while out for a walk? Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to pass this story along to fellow dog lovers!
