03/26/2026
Jupiter, Jupey, our Buddy, was the kind of cat who made the world feel softer just by being in it. He loved everybody, and somehow, everybody loved him right back. There was no hesitation in him, no guardedness, just pure, open-hearted affection. He was the best cat, the kind you wish could stay forever.
I will never forget the first time I saw him at the ACC. The moment we took him out of his cage, he climbed right into my lap and fell asleep, like he already knew he was home. That was Jupiter, always choosing closeness, always choosing love. From then on, laps were his favorite place to be. We used to joke about getting “Juped,” because once he settled in, you were stuck, but no one ever really minded. Being chosen by him felt like an honor.
He purred constantly, like a quiet, steady reminder that he was happy just to be here with us. He had such a joy for life, all the way through to the very end. Whether he was tolerating foster kittens with patient curiosity, going wild with his catnip zoomies, or eagerly enjoying his beloved churro treats, he lived every moment fully and with that signature Jupiter charm.
He let himself be dressed up for every holiday, never losing that easygoing spirit. He was “Buddy” in every sense of the word, the best kind of companion, gentle, loyal, and endlessly loving. He was not just my buddy, he was everybody’s.
Jupiter had that wonderfully derpy, classic orange cat personality that made him unforgettable. He made people laugh, made them pause, made them feel loved. He left an impression on everyone lucky enough to meet him.
Even knowing about his heart issues, even knowing this day would come, it does not make saying goodbye any easier. I do not think I will ever truly be ready to let him go. But I do know how lucky I was to have him, to be loved by him.
Jupiter has crossed the rainbow bridge, but he leaves behind a lifetime of love that will never fade. He will be missed by so many, but he will never be forgotten. His warmth, his purring, his unwavering love will stay with us always.
Goodnight, sweet Jupey. Thank you for being everybody’s Buddy.
