The Sanctuary is extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Solomon James, Asian elephant Shirley’s former caretaker in Monroe, Louisiana.
Prior to her retirement at The Sanctuary, Shirley lived at The Louisiana Purchase Zoo and Gardens, where she was the sole elephant resident for 22 years. As Shirley aged, the zoo staff decided she needed more space and the companionship of other elephants. Solomon accompanied Shirley on her journey to Tennessee as her primary caretaker. Her arrival was captured by Argo Films and became part of the much-loved documentary, The Urban Elephant.
Gary Miers, friend and colleague of Solomon, shared his memories of the day that Shirley departed for The Sanctuary: “Solomon was there for everything, by our side, comforting Shirley. He and I gave her a bath the afternoon before she loaded. Solomon and I brought bales of hay to the back of the trailer and made a stairway so she could better step up into the trailer. She was so cooperative, and seemingly excited. I will never forget our last hugs, and her ‘smile' when we gave her watermelons. I will miss my friend, a compassionate, spiritual man, always smiling, always caring.”
Solomon returned to The Sanctuary in 2018 to celebrate Shirley’s 70th birthday. We cherish the memory of Shirley with eyes shining and trunk outstretched, greeting him. Those of us who met Solomon during his visit felt very lucky to have had the opportunity to spend time with him and hear him talk about his love in caring for Shirley for over 20 years. Supporters and Shirley fans around the world who were introduced to Solomon through our social media and followed his visit in EleNews will join us in remembering him as a special friend and hero.