Country singer Jessie James Decker is mourning the loss of a beloved companion after her longtime family dog, Jakey, died. Jessie also competed on Season 31 of “Dancing With the Stars,” introducing fans to another side of her stage talent.
The 37-year-old reality TV Star shared the heartbreaking news in a March 16 Instagram post, revealing that the pup had been part of her life for more than 14 years.
Over time, Jakey became far more than a pet to the family. Decker described him as a constant presence through some of life’s most meaningful milestones.
Jakey Was There From the Beginning of Decker’s Family Story
“I’m heartbroken to share that our Jakey has passed,” Decker wrote in the emotional tribute. “He was with us for 14 1/2 beautiful years. He was our first baby and made us a family.”
According to Decker, Jakey entered her life before many of the milestones that later defined her family.
The singer said the dog was part of her life long before she and her husband, former NFL player Eric Decker, welcomed their children. Jakey witnessed their early relationship and remained a loyal companion as their household grew.
“He was with us as we fell in love, got engaged, married, with us as we had all four of our children (he loved them so much),” she wrote of Jakey’s relationship with her family of six. “Every chapter of our lives… he grew up with us.”
Alongside the tribute, Decker shared a collection of photos showing Jakey through the years. The post included about 20 images of the dog with the family, as well as moments with the family’s other dog, Jenny.
Jessie James Decker Says the Family’s ‘Hearts Are Shattered’
Although the family knew Jakey was aging, Decker admitted that the loss has still been overwhelming.
The singer said she and her husband are trying to focus on the memories they created with their longtime companion.
“Our hearts are shattered into pieces. I’m doing my best to focus on all the beautiful memories and moments we had together,” she wrote.
The post quickly drew support from fans who shared messages of sympathy and comfort in the comments.
Decker Family Leaning on Each Other Through the Loss
Decker also shared that she and Eric are doing their best to stay strong for their children during the emotional time.
The couple shares four children. Their family includes Vivianne, 11, Eric Jr., 10, Forrest, 7, and Denver, 2.
She said the children have shown strength, even as the family struggles to adjust to life without Jakey.
“The kids are being so strong, but this is not something we felt prepared for,” she wrote.
The family is also helping their other dog, Jenny, adjust after losing her longtime companion.
Decker ended the tribute with a heartfelt goodbye to the dog who had been part of so many memories.
“Jakey, we love you, and we’ll miss you every day for the rest of our lives. What a beautiful gift you were to us.”
