Pat Boone is leaning on music once more as he faces heartbreak. The 91-year-old singer revealed on September 24 that his beloved dog Shadow passed away in August. Shadow, who first belonged to Boone’s late wife Shirley, became his constant companion after she died in 2019 following 66 years of marriage.
Boone’s Touching Tribute To Shadow
In a touching Instagram post, Boone remembered Shadow as his “faithful companion and bed partner,” sharing how he often sang to him and is now honoring him with a heartfelt tribute song.
On Instagram, Boone wrote, “Here’s my buddy, Shadow. He was Shirley’s dog first, and oh, how they loved each other. After she went to Heaven, he stayed close by my side, my faithful companion and bed partner. I’d sing to him sometimes…a little tune I’ve recorded just for him: ‘Nights are long since you went away, I think about you all through the day… My buddy, my buddy, nobody quite so true.’”
Singer Remembers Shadow’s Life & Bond With Shirley
Boone first told fans about Shadow’s declining health in August, recalling the day they met him at a charity auction. “He was Shirley’s dog first. Or maybe I should say he chose Shirley,” Boone said. “We met him at a charity auction when he was just a little pup, and he laid right at her feet. Nobody was going to outbid us after that.”
The cocker spaniel became a beloved part of their family, offering unconditional love and comfort, especially after Shirley’s passing. “I like to think she’s waiting there for him, too,” Boone added. “God made our animals with so much beauty and love. I believe we’ll see them again one day.”
Boone Releases Tribute Song “My Buddy”
(Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)To honor Shadow’s memory, Boone will release a song called “My Buddy” on September 26. He revealed the song was inspired by the tune he used to sing to Shadow during quiet moments together.
Music has long been Boone’s way of processing love and loss. After Shirley’s death, he often turned to performing and recording as a means of coping. Now, with Shadow’s passing, he continues to find healing in song.
Fans Share Condolences & Prayers
Boone’s emotional posts about Shadow sparked an outpouring of love from fans. One wrote, “❤️ so sorry for your loss of Buddy🙏 You have always been an inspiration to all of us❤️ Your music has inspired me to stay close to Jesus ❤️.”
Another commented, “So touching and sweet. It’s plain Shadow loves you, too. Their love is full and unconditional. As is yours, dear Pat. God bless you both🙏❤️🙏❤️.”
A third added, “What a lucky doggy 🐾 having the Pat Boone sing to him ❤️”
For Boone, Shadow’s memory now lives on in music, alongside the love he still carries for Shirley and the family they built together.
