Elephant Sanctuary Announces Passing of Longtime Resident Sissy

The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee has announced the passing of Sissy, an Asian elephant who spent more than 26 years at the Hohenwald sanctuary. She was 58 years old.

Sanctuary officials said Sissy was humanely euthanized on Monday, July 6, after her quality of life declined because of advanced osteoarthritis and worsening mobility issues. She passed peacefully at 4:45 p.m., surrounded by the caregivers who had cared for her for nearly three decades.

Sissy arrived at The Elephant Sanctuary on January 26, 2000, after spending more than 30 years in Texas zoos. Captured in Thailand as a calf and brought to the United States in 1969, she survived a historic flood while living at Frank Buck Zoo before eventually finding a permanent home in Hohenwald.

During her years at the sanctuary, Sissy formed close bonds with several elephants, including Winkie, Shirley, and, more recently, African elephant Nosey. Caregivers said she was known for the distinctive “popping” sounds she made with her trunk whenever Nosey was nearby.

As Sissy aged, The Elephant Sanctuary continued adapting her care to meet her changing needs, including moving her to the Willow Barn and Habitat in 2025, where she received specialized veterinary care and accommodations.

A preliminary necropsy confirmed Sissy suffered from severe, advanced osteoarthritis. Additional findings are being evaluated by the University of Georgia Zoo and Exotic Animal Pathology Service.

The Elephant Sanctuary said Sissy’s nearly 27 years in Hohenwald reflected the organization’s mission of providing lifelong care, companionship, and freedom of choice for elephants retired from zoos and circuses.