Kidie (pronounced “Ky‑dee”) Halbert Thornton was born on April 8, 1959, in Sonora, Texas. A proud Texas Tech Red Raider, she graduated in 1981 and carried that spirit with her throughout her life. As a girl, Kidie spent her summers in Ruidoso at her family’s cabin, a cherished place dating back to the 1940s. In 2019, she made Ruidoso her permanent home.
Kidie loved the beach, adored her two sons, and had a lifelong devotion to animals. Growing up on her family’s ranch in Sutton County, she developed a deep respect for the creatures in her care. Over the years she shared her life with many beloved pets, but in 2020 she adopted a rescue dog named Bell, an adoption that changed everything. Bell’s resilience and unconditional love inspired Kidie to join the Board of Directors of the Humane Society of Lincoln County in 2023, where she poured her heart into helping the animals who needed it most.
On July 29, 2025, we tragically lost our wonderful Kidie. Her energy, compassion, and love for life touched countless people and animals. To honor her legacy, we created Kidie’s Corner, a tribute to her unwavering dedication to the underdogs…older pets, shy pets, and those who simply need a little extra love.
Each month, we will highlight one of “Kidie’s Heroes” – an animal still waiting for their forever home.
Kidie's Hero of the Month
Our first four Kidie’s Heroes – Boba, Rose Gold, Sunshine and Rocko have been adopted and Wabi-Sabi was transferred to Best Friends. We are now featuring Ewok.
While our previous Kidie’s Heroes have had a ‘flaw’ – age, health condition, painful shyness that made it harder for potential adopters to see their awesomeness, Ewok is perfect inside and out.
He is about 3 years old, has played well with people and other dogs. His foster momma, who gave this good boy a break from the shelter, says he is the best foster she has ever had. He is house trained, crate trained walks beautifully with her on and off leash in her yard. He plays fetch, loves his stuffies and thinks he’s a lapdog and loves to give kisses.
All Ewok needs is to be seen and this is why he is our Kidie’s Hero of the Month.
If adoption isn’t possible, we invite you to support Kidie’s Legacy Fund, which provides care for the least adoptable animals and those with special needs. Your contribution directly honors Kidie’s passion for giving every animal a chance.
In Kidie’s memory, please donate today and help us continue the work she loved.
