Tessa Hitson June 9, 2012 - October 27, 2026A little over 14 years ago we chose you out of a litter of 6 tiny puppies. Weighing a mighty 2 ounces, you fit in the palm of a hand. At eight weeks we went to bring you home. You promptly stole a toy squirrel out of Nathan's back pocket and the chase was on! Your registered name is Tessa Little Bit of 'Bama. But to us you were Tessa, a Tennessee girl. We were not prepared for such a tiny heart to make such an impact on our lives. You and Keith would disagree on who was the "Alpha" of the Hitson pack. You became the official greeter of the family. You protected us from anything that came into our yard by sounding the alarm. You chased away the enemy (the squirrels) to give the birds a fighting chance at their feeders. You took your responsibilities seriously. But your main job as being a comforting companion to Keith is what you excelled at! Pain and anxiety can be debilitating. You had the innate ability to know when to nuzzle, demand to be petted and when to use that velvet tongue and lick away the hurt. In return, we loved you completely. We paid the cheese "tax" by giving you a corner of every Velveeta cheese slice opened in the house. We snuck you bits of the choicest cut of meat. We gave you a kiss and tucked you into bed every night. Now we are left broken hearted for the loss of your presence and love. We are better people for having been loved by you and having the chance to love you. If love could have kept you here, you would have lived forever. Go rest easy Sweet Girl. Much Love Keith, Melissa, Nathan, Marissa, Trey, Meredith, Brenna, extended family and friends.