Grace

On September 11, 2001, more commonly referenced as 9/11, America experienced a tragedy the likes not seen in modern times. In retrospect, on that same day, God gave life to an amazingly loving little Angel that five weeks later would become my precious and incomparable baby: Grace.

With her smooth as silk naked physique, (she was a purebred Hairless Chinese Crested), comical but loving personality, Grace garnered the attention of all regardless of where she was present. She exuded the very essence of gentleness and compassion.

Her life got off to a rough start as she required a blood transfusion and massive antibiotics at the age of six-weeks from an unknown illness. She recovered completely and grew to become not just an exceptional young lady but a surprising and unexpectedly intelligent child who was beyond easy to love. Her favorite color was lime green, her feet were hands off, she loved her plethora of sweaters, laying in the sun, and was twice featured in the Chattanooga Times Free Press - once winning a much deserved beauty contest making her daddy one happy and proud man. Grace was exquisite, kind natured, gentle, insanely intelligent, methodical, and exuded every positive quality that only God could compile in one awesome little being. Being a "daddy's girl", she was beyond spoiled, pampered, and loved.

In the summer of 2015 Grace was diagnosed with Grade 5 congestive heart failure. Four veterinarians later, along with a regimen of heart medications, that condition was considered under control. However in December her little body again rebelled against her when two veterinarians later, confirmed she had renal (kidney) failure. While there's no cure, Grace faced this battle with courage the likes rarely seen as she fought hard and was encouraged and surrounded by a daddy and mommy who babied, tended, cared, loved, and consoled her every step and stage of her gallant battle. Despite countless prayers and a fight rarely seen, at 10:05 am on Thursday January 21, 2016, God called Grace back home.

Grace, commonly referred to as Gracie and GracieMae, is preceded in death by her brother Gable, and is survived by her daddy Allan Boyd, mommy Tracy Millican, little sister Noki and brother Ozzie.

Thank You God for enriching our lives with the gift of Little GracieMae. She was complex, caring, nurturing, courageous, and loving the likes rarely seen. Her presence was beyond special and the tremendous void she leaves in our hearts is irreparable and her love for her family makes her irreplaceable. Grace, your memory is forever engraved on our hearts and the flame of your amazing existence will never be extinguished in our hearts and minds.

Rest In Peace BabyGirl, my Angel, - until I can hold you tight once again.