26 Jul Obituary: Cruella

Cruella (Tyrant ~ Stage Door Dolly) passed away at Our Mims Retirement Haven in Paris, Kentucky. Jeanne Mirabito, Haven President and Farm Manager, found the thirty-one-year-old mare the morning of July 26, 2013.

Said Mirabito: “Cruella met the world head on every day. She was one of the kindest horses I have ever witnessed around a child, kitten or any young creature but a force to be reckoned for the rest of us. She made her likes and dislikes very clear so it wasn’t difficult to keep her happy; just as long as we humans remembered who was in charge.

“Her body may have given out but her spirit never did. As with all the beautiful mares who have graced our barns, she will be greatly missed.”

Cruella arrived at the Haven on March 22, 2008. She had two ardent sponsors who supported her throughout her stay. “Cruella was loved every day of her life,” commented Cheryl Bellucci, Director of Fund Raising and Promotion for OMRH. “It’s so heartening to know, because so many mares are lost or forgotten in their later years. Cruella did not suffer that fate.”

Cruella earned $92,607 in eighteen starts on the track, including a second in the Chris Evert Handicap. Part of Maryland’s Country Life Farm’s broodmare band, Cruella produced fourteen foals. Most notably is the 1990 colt Diazo by Jade Hunter. Diazo earned $581,400 in thirteen starts with 6 wins and 1 place. He won the G1 Strub, the G1 Pegasus, and the G2 Malibu.

Cruella was buried in OMRH’s equine cemetery.

OMRH became a 501(c)3 nonprofit in 2006. Featured in Barbara Livingston’s More Old Friends, the Haven specializes in “restoring health and spirit in aged mares.” The Haven is supported through donations, eBay auctions, and its online shop.

Our Mims Retirement Haven is home to Princess Royale, Bel’s Starlet, Blue Viking, Lotka, Ms. Royal Flagship, Taba Dance, Trail Guide, and Dogwood Patty. Our Mims’ grandson, 1997 Breeder’s Cup™ Sprint winner Elmhurst, arrived in October of 2011.

OMRH Web Site: http://www.OurMims.org
Press Releases: http://omrh-pr.blogspot.com

Jeanne Mirabito: (859) 227-6304
Farm Manager, President
jeanne@ourmims.org
Cheryl Bellucci: (937) 776-1904
Director of Fund Raising and Promotion
cheryl@ourmims.org