With heavy hearts, we share the news that Doris Day passed away peacefully this morning at her home in Carmel, Calif. She had just celebrated her 97th birthday on April 3, and many of you attended birthday events and sent your best wishes from around the globe. She delighted in hearing from you! She was in good physical health to the end, and we are so grateful she was surrounded by friends as she passed.
The world has lost a light today. Doris was not just a darling of song and screen, but a close friend, an inspiration when the world seemed bleak, and a dear, compassionate advocate for her favorite beings on Earth: the 4-leggers.
Her life’s work — her music, her films, and her animal advocacy — comprise an enduring legacy. Fans will continue to laugh at her romantic comedies, admire her dramatic grit, marvel at her pitch and interpretation of so many great, songs. She redefined what it meant to be a girl singer with a Big Band, and she broke the mold for Hollywood starlets. And for so many fans, young and old, the name Doris Day will always make us smile.
Doris’ passionate work on behalf of dogs, cats, horses, sea lions, raptors and other animals in need of rescue, veterinary care and adoption will not end. The Doris Day Animal Foundation is committed to continuing its work as a grant-giving organization, funding smaller animal welfare non-profits across the country.
While we grieve Doris’ loss, we at DDAF also honor her leadership of more than 40 years. She was truly a voice for the voiceless among us, a bright and beautiful champion for the cause of animal welfare, and a dear, dear friend to us all.
In deepest sympathy,
T. Robert Bashara
CFO
The Doris Day ANimal Foundation