Belle - affectionately known as Baby Belle and Bella-Boo - was a beautiful black and tan Coonhound mix who spent nearly 13 wonderful years filling her family's lives with love, laughter, companionship and countless unforgettable memories.

Belle was adopted in Salem, Massachusetts, at approximately 10 weeks old after being born in Arrington, Virginia. From the very beginning, it was clear she had chosen her person just as much as he had chosen her.

On the night of September 25, 2013, Wes drove to Salem hoping to find a furry companion to bring home. He had seen a puppy named Fiona online who was still available, so he took the blue card with her name on it to the front desk. He was brought into a private room, and moments later, a 10-week-old puppy named Belle came in. Belle immediately ran toward him, stood up on her back legs placed both front paws on his shoulders, and gave him a kiss right on the nose.

In that instant, Wes knew. Belle was his baby girl, and she had found her home.

For many years afterward, Belle continued her special tradition of greeting her dad with a hug and a kiss - a little ritual that became one of the most precious parts of their life together.

Belle was surrounded by a large family who loved her dearly. Her siblings and extended family included Grammy, Grampy, Owen, Jared, Derek, Shelby, Theo, Gemma, Penny, Great Grampy, Great Grammy, Jodi, Brody, Reilly, Rachel, Otto and Summer. Her best friends being Theo and Shelby, with whom she shared many happy days and special adventures.

Belle loved the simple pleasures of life. Her favorite toys were Lamb Chop and Little Pig. She could never resist a good game of fetch or tug-of-war. She loved swimming, rolling in the grass, riding in the car with the windows down and visiting Maple Springs, Ellisville and the Canal. Some of her happiest times were spent having sleepovers at Grammy's.

Some of Belle's least favorite things were thunderstorms, fireworks, heavy wind, and the loud exhaust of cars and motorcycles. Nor did she enjoy having her teeth brushed or her nails done with a dremel.

But perhaps her favorite place of all was beside her dad. Belle slept right next to Wes on her big, comfortable bed - which took up nearly 70% of his bed - always close enough to be within belly-scratching range. And that was exactly where she wanted to be: beside her daddy, safe, comfortable and loved.

Her favorite foods were peanut butter and ground beef, and there was little doubt Belle believed both were among life's greatest treasures.

Belle's life was filled with adventures, family, friendship and an immeasurable amount of love. But above all else, she was Wes's baby girl. The bond they shared was something truly special, a connection built from that very first hug and nose kiss and strengthened through nearly 13 years of everyday moments, adventures, quiet nights and unconditional love.

On September 10, 2026, Belle peacefully completed her journey, leaving behind a family who will forever feel the enormous space her presence filled.

She leaves behind countless memories, a lifetime of love and a heart that will never stop missing her.

Rest, run, jump, play, swim and roll in peace, my sweet pup.

Daddy loves you.