LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Franklin County Humane Society is continuing building efforts on a new shelter in honor of one of its former board members.
In honor of Becky Bryant-Wells, the organization is collecting funds while remembering her life that helped save Kentucky’s lost, homeless and stray animals.
Smart, funny and “a bundle of energy and laughter” is how loved ones and friends described Bryant-Wells, who recently passed. “She was a ray of sunshine, you know, like on a bad work day,” said decades-long friend and Humane Society supporter Betsy Kennedy.
Bryant-Wells’ family and friends remember her as not only a stray-animal rescuer and advocate for their welfare but also as someone who listened and cared about the wellbeing of others.
“It didn’t matter if it was two weeks, two months from the last time she saw you, her first question was whatever big event had been going on in your life or with your life. That was her first question, ‘How’s it going?’ or ‘How’s your foot surgery?’ She would ask one million questions and you didn’t mind because you knew she cared,” said Kennedy.
Extending that care to animals as often as possible, Byrant-Wells’ sister, Laura Bryant, says she and her little sister grew up providing shelter and care to stray animals as often as possible. Bryant-Wells would continue helping dogs and cats to find safe homes throughout her life.
Now, holding the memory of her presence and efforts close, the animal sanctuary is collecting funds to complete a brand new animal shelter.
Overseeing the construction is former Humane Society board president Sam Marcus, who worked beside Bryant-Wells during her time as secretary.
He recalls her as someone who expressed her admiration for the things she cared about.
“That’s the thing about Becky — she’s passionate about the animals but really about everything. I mean, that’s just the way she lived her life, and I just kind of been very sad about her passing it and also sad that she won’t be here for that new facility,” explained Marcus.
Often flooded because of inclement weather, the Frankfort Humane Society has operated in the same building for nearly fifty years.
Once the needed amount is collected for the new shelter’s construction, future donations will go directly to the quality and care of these furry friends.
Peers say that Bryant-Wells would be thrilled to see their finalized efforts. “She was so passionate about building a new facility and getting it done. You know we would communicate back and forth about how it’s going, how far along it is, what you need, do you know how can I help you? I’m sure other board members know,” said Marcus.
The new shelter will feature a special space dedicated to friends, visitors and homeless animals to remember her impact and love for helping.
With two separate entrances for animal admission and adoption, the shelter will also include a space for clinical animal care. The shelter opens its doors in March 2023.