Monday, August 22, 2022

In Memory: Jerry Hartley 1935-2022


 Abbott "Pete" Smith D.V.M.
June 16, 1938 - February 22, 2010

Welcome to Milliron Monday where every Monday we celebrate the legacy of Pete Smith, D.V.M., and  Milliron: Abbott “Pete” Smith, D.V.M. The Biography, including his wife Jody (1938-2021)

Well, the woman was trying to convince me that Junco was not worth the price I was asking. I was upset; Junco was perfect the way he was and for the woman to degrade the stallion in that manner was unacceptable! The woman went up to my house to get a cup of coffee. I picked up the phone and called Dr. Smith. "Pete, what are you doing tomorrow? Set me up an appointment to castrate Junco.”
– Jerry Hartley

Jerry Hartley, friend of Pete and Jody Smith, my friend, passed away on July 20, 2021, at the age of 85. Jerry spent several afternoons at my barn talking about Pete, horses, and more horses. He was a seasoned horseman and his stories were endless, so it seemed. Jerry and Jody would laugh, "Do you remember the time...?" and they would laugh some more. 

My favorite story is of Junco, his prized New Forest Pony who he gave to Jody. Jerry traveled with Pete on farm calls - mostly calls to West Virginia vetting horses. Most of the time, the out-of-town calls were at night, they slept in Pete's car before making the long drive home to Milliron Clinic. Jerry had volumes of tales. One lifetime didn't seem to be enough for all he wanted to do.

We remember Jerry and celebrate a life well-lived. Thanks, Jerry, for all the great stories, laughter, and friendship. 

Jody, Pete, Jerry, and Fritz


Milliron Monday featuring Jerry Hartley:


Through captivating, powerful, and emotional anecdotes, we celebrate the life of Dr. Abbott P. Smith. His biography takes the reader from smiles to laughter to empathy and tears. Dr. Smith gave us compelling lessons learned from animals; the role animals play in the human condition, the joy of loving an animal, and the awe of their spirituality. A tender and profound look into the life of a skilled veterinarian.


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