Remembering Acorn: The Heart of Our Herd

April 22nd was a difficult day for us at Jones Family Farm & Ranch. On that spring morning, we said goodbye to Acorn, our beloved Gloucestershire Old Spot sow and the gentle matriarch of our pig family. Her passing has left a quiet space in the pastures and in our hearts, but her spirit remains woven into the fabric of our farm.

A Gentle Soul

Acorn joined our family in 2022 as a young pig, quickly winning us over with her sweet nature and calm presence. She was more than just a member of our livestock-she was a true companion, always eager for a back scratch or a gentle nuzzle. Acorn’s devotion to her piglets was unmatched; she mothered them with patience and care, and her twice-yearly litters brought new life and joy to our ranch.

Her Final Days

Shortly after weaning her last litter in early April, Acorn fell ill. We worked closely with our veterinarian, administering three rounds of antibiotics and steroids, and spent two weeks hand-feeding her, hoping for a turnaround. Despite our best efforts and her own quiet strength, Acorn did not recover. Ultimately, we made the difficult decision to let her go peacefully, prioritizing her comfort and dignity.

A Lasting Legacy

Acorn was laid to rest on the ranch she called home, and we planted a tree over her burial spot-a living tribute to her memory. As the seasons pass and the tree grows, it will stand as a reminder of the gentle giant who touched our lives and the lives of everyone who visited our farm.

We may never know exactly what caused her decline. While we don’t believe it was a contagious illness, it may have been cancer or another hidden internal problem. What we do know is that Acorn’s time with us, though too short, was filled with love, care, and the simple joys of farm life.

Always in Our Hearts

Acorn was a sweetheart in every sense. Her legacy lives on in her piglets, in the lessons she taught us about compassion and stewardship, and in the shade of the tree that now marks her resting place. She will always be a part of Jones Family Farm & Ranch-her memory rooted here, as enduring as the land itself.

Rest well, Acorn. You are missed, and you are loved.