Matriarch of fish kingdom dies suddenly;world's largest molly remembered fondly

An era has ended. Aubrey the marble molly, the matriarch of our freshwater aquarium, died today of natural causes.

The fish, known internationally as the world's largest marble molly, died suddenly and without any apparent signs of trauma or distress. Funeral services were hastily arranged in accordance with her wishes, according to a source close to the family.

"She was a fish with a tremendous sense of dignity," the source said. "She knew that she had a special place in the hearts of all fish-watchers, and when the time came, she didn't want to keep her maker waiting."

Aubrey was introduced to our community aquarium on its opening day nearly a year ago -- on April 15, 2005. Of all the pioneer fish, today only Frozone the glass catfish (owned by Nourisha Wells) remains alive. Aubrey's friend, Coral the marble molly, was owned by Andrea Turner and died just a few weeks after joining the aquarium.

"Aubrey was a special fish who brought a special grace to our community," said George the Silver Dollar. "She was the world's largest molly, and her heart was even bigger than her body. We are so sad to lose her but at the same time proud to have known her."

Terri Spears, who owned and took great pride in Aubrey, was notified of her fish's death by telegram this afternoon and decined to be interviewed. Family members say she is bearing her grief as well as can be expected.

"She was a mother to all who knew her, and a pillar of strength to a community so often challenged by circumstance and sorrow," TankKeeper said in a eulogy broadcast throughout the kingdom. "With a tear for the past, and hope for the future, we say goodbye to Aubrey today. May the hope she gave to all of us live on through those who knew and loved her."

Other pioneer fish who preceded Aubrey in death include Irwin the Bala Shark, Frank Platt, Whino the loach, Darf the black molly, Toby the catfish, Coral and Fatty Arbuckle.