Leona, 2004-18

Leona is no more. She died in my arms at 3:15 this morning, having suffered an apparent stroke and breathing with great difficulty. We found her in the bathroom, having lost the use of her left front leg and in terrible distress. We took her to bed, where she expired, surrounded by those who loved her. Now she can romp in the fields of the Lord with her departed brother Rascal. Leona was always Kanga to Rascal’s ADHD Tigger: She demanded nothing more than to be petted (for which you were rewarded with deafening purrs) and some occasional kitty chow. She was also a regular presence during NFL games on Sunday, wedging herself between her Mom and Dad. Maybe her most endearing characteristic was her tendency to keep Jennifer’s head warm by sitting on it while we slept. Alas, no more “hats,” no more Leona. The Purr Monster has gone to a better place but we are all the sadder for it. At least she suffered little at the end and left this vale of tears with catlike speed. Not all of our felines have been so fortunate. Goodbye, Leona. (Portrait by Jennifer McKee.)