Gedi — the original Mister Fluffy Bottom — quietly left this realm in his sleep.
He was far more than a mascot, a character, or a particularly fluffy little creature with opinions. He was the reason this peculiar corner of the internet existed in the first place.
He recognized his people. He had rituals and preferences, knew when it was time to get comfortable, and could communicate enormous amounts of judgment without saying a single word. Those who knew him knew there was someone there: a small, unmistakable presence, with a mind of his own and very clear views about how the household ought to be run.
We loved him. We will miss him terribly. Even the parts of our day he considered badly managed. Especially those.
He would probably object to the length of this announcement. He would certainly ask whether the memorial budget included parsley.
The editorial department remains open.
Mister Fluffy Bottom began with Gedi, and because of him it will continue.
The commentary will not stop.
The observations, complaints, absurdities, occasional wisdom, and suspicious glances at the human condition will carry on in his spirit. There is still far too much nonsense going unchallenged, and he left the hoomans with responsibilities.
We will keep writing in his memory: plainly, affectionately, and with the appropriate level of disrespect for anything that deserves it. The staff will carry on the column. Gedi will remain its original voice, its inspiration, and its entirely unreasonable standard of editorial independence.
His absence is real. So is what he started.
Thank you, Gedi, for making our world stranger, warmer, and considerably less dignified. For the rituals, the company, the attitude. For being so completely yourself.
Rest well, little dissident. Should the next realm have a management committee, we wish them luck.
Goodnight, Mister Fluffy Bottom.
Your chair is empty.
Your column is not.