In Loving Memory of Wilma Jean
Wilma Jean and Co-Founder Lauren Lockey.
Wilma Jean's story began at a homestead with a family whose plan for her was to be slaughtered for their consumption once she was of optimal weight. But in the midst of raising her, the family was overwhelmed with work and unable to give her the proper care she needed in her early years. As a result, they reached out to a close relative who was able to take her in, and after some time, this individual grew to love Wilma Jean and couldn't stand the thought of her being sent to slaughter. And so the relative of the family who was initially raising her had a change of heart and decided the best thing for Wilma Jean was to send her to a sanctuary where she would live out the rest of her life!
Wilma Jean arrived to Sage Mountain with her soul mate, Ponyboy, early 2017. She lived a happy 8 years with us, and we’re so grateful for all the time we had her. She loved everything in life, from being the boss of the other pigs, to watching the sunset every night with Pony, Wilma really knew what it meant to enjoy life and live in the moment.
In early June this year (2025), she began struggling to stand, and within days, lost control of her back legs completely. She made her way back to the first original shelter, a place she hadn’t slept in for years, and soon became fully immobile, barely able to scoot around the shelter with her front end. That’s where she spent her final days, surrounded by love.
We did everything we could to keep her comfortable, but she let us know when she was ready. Her eyes, her spirit — she told us it was time. The other animals knew too. They all surrounded her constantly, as did the people who were close to her, to show up for her in her last few moments.
Wilma Jean took her last breath peacefully and pain free in August of 2025. She will forever be missed and we will forever honor her and her memory.
Please share any memories you may have with our sweet girl with us via email at info@sagemtn.org.
Thank you so much for supporting our sassy Queen Wilma Jean. May she forever rest in peace and love.
