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This testimonial was graciously submitted by Richley Delahay Jr., son of Winpisinger Center Facility and Services Manager Richley Delahay.
Brandi, an English lab who became an integral part of the Winpisinger Center, passed away on September 21, 2026. At a young age, Brandi attended training at Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines, the IAM’s favorite charity, with the hopes of becoming a service dog for someone in need.
While putting her whole heart into her classes, she struggled, realizing she was not cut out to be a service dog. She then decided to pursue a “career change.”
This career change ultimately led her to Chris Wagoner, the director of the W3 Center in Hollywood, Md. This was the moment Brandi knew she was home. As her career progressed, Brandi and Mr. Wagoner walked many miles together, welcoming many students into the W3 Center.
However, life would throw a curveball when we lost Mr. Wagoner to a courageous fight with cancer. Thankfully, when one door closes, another one opens, and that door opened into the Delahay household with Richley Delahay, the current manager of facilities at the W3 Center.
As Brandi settled into her new family home, she loved her long walks on the farm and simply sitting outside and soaking up the sunshine. Although, Brandi knew she had a job to get back to – and she was ready to get to work!
Every morning, Brandi woke up at 5 a.m. and found a present for everyone – usually someone’s shoe! Then, she would head over and wake up Richley with a gentle nudge of her paw. Richley would then ask, “Are you ready to be an IAM Union dog today?” Brandi wagged her tail like a helicopter with excitement, as if she were trying to say, “YES! I’m ready!”
Every day, Brandi walked with Richley to the maintenance shop to read her list of duties for the day, and she was always eager to take on any challenge! She then went to greet her brothers and sisters at breakfast, hoping to score pets and be given the opportunity that a little piece of breakfast might accidentally fall off someone’s tray. She understood many of them were away from their homes attending class, and made it her mission to provide a little comfort and companionship. Next stop was the ladies’ office, where she made her rounds, said good morning, collected even more pets, and hopefully scored a treat or two.
As she accompanied her siblings to their classes, Brandi knew that one of the most important parts of her job was continuing her education as well. She attended classes to learn how to become the best guide dog she could be, so she could share what she learned with her fellow Guide Dogs of America doggy friends. Of course, being the best guide dog is exhausting work!
Brandi would eventually curl up for a well-deserved nap. Now and then, someone might even hear a little snore or two. Once she woke up, she often stretched with her belly up in the center of the room, patiently waiting for someone to finally give in and rub her belly.
For 10 wonderful years, Brandi proudly served as a true union member, providing special ways of bringing us all together with her kindness, love, companionship, and a little comedy – sometimes all that is needed to unite us in Solidarity. She truly was a friend and a beloved member of the IAM family.
While you may no longer hear her jingling along the halls of the W3, Brandi’s paw prints she left on our hearts will remain there forever. Rest easy, sister, you will be deeply missed.
