Terrence clings to life; Phillip says tearful goodbye

Terrence the albino Paradise Fish clings to life at this hour with friends and family rushing to bid farewell to a fish that only yesterday was the picture of health. Phillip was among the few fish granted a private visit with the dying fish.

Illness came quickly to the larger of the albino Paradise Fish. He was discovered floating precariously at tank top at 11 a.m. By 11:15 a.m., death appeared imminent as Terrence's list became more pronounced, his breathing slowed extraordinarily.

Doctors who examined Terrence at 11:00 a.m. quickly delivered a grim prognosis. Phillip was summoned to his friend's side, and a deathbed conversation ensued. Even as the two old friends chatted Terrence's vital signs dipped far below the norm. "My Heart Will Go On" could be heard playing in the distance, faintly.

"He's a very sick fish and we are very, very sad," said one family member who was waiting for a chance to see Terrence. "We all love him very much."

It was only last month that Terrence and Phillip arrived in the community aquarium. As the newest additions they quickly became the star attractions of an aquarium already full of celebrity fish. The fish were known for their docile nature and beautiful red coloring on their sides and back fins.

Now, as the line of family and friends wait their turn to bid Terrence farewell, the fish is being remembered as a gentle figure who lived life to the fullest.