Charleston Animal Society today announced the grand opening of the Sadie Greer Memorial Garden, a tranquil new remembrance park that offers a final resting place for cherished animal companions. Nestled beneath the sweeping branches of live oaks on the organization’s North Charleston campus, this unique space invites peaceful reflection on the unconditional love and joy pets bring to our lives.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open The Sadie Greer Memorial Garden will be held Thursday, April 24 at 2:00 p.m. at Charleston Animal Society, 2455 Remount Road, North Charleston. The public is invited to attend and experience the beauty of the garden.
This special area was named in memory of Sadie, the beloved cat of the garden’s benefactors, Hank and Laurel Greer. "The space was envisioned as a way to honor the deep bonds between people and their animals," said Laurel Greer. "Sadie’s Memorial Garden is more than just a resting place—it is a tribute to the love we carry for our pets long after they’re gone." Sadie’s cremains will be among the first placed in the Garden, symbolizing the heartfelt intent behind this special sanctuary.
At the heart of the garden are four beautifully designed granite columbaria, crafted by Sunset Stone Memorial, which provide niches to hold cremains and memorial items for multiple pets. These elegant structures form the centerpiece of the garden, surrounded by pathways that encourage quiet reflection.
The design and creation of Sadie’s Garden was a true collaboration of artistry and compassion. The American College of the Building Arts (ACBA) played an integral role, with Simeon Warren and Leigh Handal guiding students to contribute their talents across three traditional trades—carpentry, stonework, and ironwork.
Wooden pergolas, created using historic carpentry techniques, frame the garden and offer shaded areas for visitors.
Stone animals, hand-carved by ACBA students, lend a timeless presence to the garden's design.
Wrought iron accents add both structural and aesthetic charm, tying together the classical inspiration behind the garden’s construction.
Renowned designer Sandy Byers of Byers Design helped shape the garden's peaceful layout, while Leadenwah Landscaping brought it to life with lush plantings and expert landscape architecture. From the winding paths to the carefully selected flora, every element of Sadie’s Garden has been chosen to evoke peace, remembrance, and love.
“This is a place where the connection between humans and animals is honored in the most beautiful way,” said Hank Greer. “Sadie’s Garden is meant to be a legacy of peace and compassion.”
Charleston Animal Society’s decision to provide this memorial space reflects the increasing importance of pets in people’s lives and the growing desire to have meaningful ways to commemorate them. The Garden offers individuals a dignified and lasting way to keep their beloved companions close, even after they pass.
“We are humbled to offer this peaceful space to the community, where memories can be cherished and legacies honored,” said Charleston Animal Society President and CEO Joe Elmore, CAWA, CFRE.
Pet owners may purchase a niche in one of the columbaria and are also invited to memorialize their pets with personalized plaques, photos, and keepsakes. They will also have the option of putting their beloved pet cremains in a granite urn that can be placed among the river rocks on the memorial mound.
The Garden is open for visitation to all who seek comfort and remembrance.
For more information about Sadie’s Garden, including pricing, availability, and how to reserve a niche for your pet, please visit CharlestonAnimalSociety.org/