By Victor Blackwell
First Coast News

JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Saturday, more than 50 people attended a memorial service for the animals that died in the fire at the Jacksonville Humane Society, April 8.

"I was devastated," said Debbie Akeson.

Akeson spent many hours volunteering at the Jacksonville Humane Society. She had mixed emotions while attending the memorial service.

"I was feeling sad but also happy that we finally brought an end to it. It's a closing,” Akeson added.

The remains of 86 animals were placed in a vault.

One of the survivors of the fire, Flower, a tiny Rat Terrier Mix was adopted by her rescuer.

"I just wanted to track her down - take care of her," said Jacksonville firefighter Jim Wilson of engine 28, the first engine to respond to the fire.

"I [have] two little kids - two five-year-old twins and they enjoy playing with her and having a good time. She's adjusted real well," said Wilson

The memorial was an opportunity to say goodbye to the animals and also thank you to the community.

"We were very pleased with the embrace that we got from the city of Jacksonville, which is frankly not a surprise to us," said Jacksonville Humane Socierty Executive Director Leona Sheddon.