A Lansdale community recently honored the memory of the town’s unofficial mayor, Charlie the Cat, after his unexpected death, report Josh Sanders and Will Kenworthy for CBS News Philadelphia.

Many residents considered Charlie and his brother Sonny the heart and soul of the White’s Road Park neighborhood. The pair were well known throughout the community due to their love for people, especially kids.

“Charlie is kind of just a symbol of joy and coming together because Charlie does not care who you are,” said neighbor Claire Smith.

Last Monday, owner Kristen Radishofski Ortiz took Charlie to the veterinary clinic after a neighbor noticed something wrong with him. The clinic determined that Charlie had suffered a spinal injury and should be put down. Ortiz shared the heartbreaking news in the White’s Road Park Charlie and Sonny Facebook group.

Following the news, neighbors gathered in the park to remember the beloved cat. Children made chalk drawings for the feline while some placed painted rocks.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched with the aim of creating a memorial in the park to honor Charlie.

Watch the entire segment on Charlie the Cat at CBS News Philadelphia.

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