Bella Ornelas

Bella came into our lives on Christmas Day as a tiny rescue. Her litter had been unwanted and was going to be thrown away if no one stepped in to save them. We brought Bella home that Christmas, never knowing just how much the little puppy we rescued would one day rescue us right back.

Bella was a Collie and Golden Retriever mix with the sweetest, most gentle soul. She loved nothing more than being close to the kids. She grew up alongside Emma, Amelia, Adaline, and Scott, and they grew up with her. She happily let them use her as a pillow, laid beside them while they slept, and was always happiest surrounded by her family.

Bella loved walks, running around with her brother Desmond, and spending time at the lake. When she and Desmond played, she would chase him around and find her own silly ways to pester him ,memories that will always make us laugh.

Bella had her own special way of asking for love. She would gently lay her head in your lap and stay there until you pet her. She never asked for much. She simply wanted to be close to the people she loved.

Bella was so much more than a pet to me. She protected me through some of the most vulnerable times of my life and loved me and my children unconditionally. She was there through chapters of our lives that changed us, quietly giving us comfort, safety, and companionship.

Bella leaves behind her mom, Maranda; her sisters, Emma, Amelia, and Adaline; her brother, Scott; and her dog brother and best friend, Desmond.

Our home will never feel quite the same without her gentle presence. We will miss her head resting in our laps, seeing her curled up beside the kids, and watching her run and play with Desmond.

We saved Bella on Christmas Day, but in so many ways, she saved us too. Bella was loved for her entire life, and she will be loved for the rest of ours.

We love you, Bella. Thank you for growing up with our babies, protecting us, and loving us so gently. You were the sweetest girl.