Peacefully, on 22 September, after a brief illness. Missy R.M. Cat, resident of The Park, citizen of the world, tireless crusader for interspecial harmony, orator extraordinaire, and aficionada of all things political.
A true believer in lifelong learning, Missy entered the University of West Terrier as a mature student and studied carpet texturizing and interspecial communication. A natural polyglot, Missy was fluent in Human English and Spanish, as well as Squirrel (both Grey and Black dialects), Cardinal, Blue Jay, and House Sparrow. After graduating summa cum laude, she decided to put her advanced communication skills to work and, in the autumn of 2003, she stood for election to the municipal council outside The Park under the FICKL (Feline Independent Cat and Kitten League) banner. Throughout the campaign, Missy worked tirelessly in support of equality among the species, even in the face of rumours that she, herself, had two Human slaves.
Although she was not successful in her bid, she will always be remembered for her series of “Missy’s Missives” and “Screen Door Chats” through which she sought to educate and motivate the electorate. Missy was interred in a private ceremony outside The Park. A memorial service and dedication is planned and, in recognition of her boundless love for her fellow creatures, her final resting place will be renamed The Missy R.M. Cat Memorial Bird Sanctuary and Wildlife Refuge.
