Lasting Tribute To The Matriarch: Famed Grizzly 399 Bronze Monument Sculpture In Progress

By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Photos By Sonia Reid and Matt Johnson 

In Jackson, Wyoming, the beloved grizzly bear known as 399 has captivated wildlife enthusiasts for nearly three decades, making her mark as an emblem of conservation, and motherhood. Now, her remarkable legacy will be immortalized in bronze with the Legacy of Love monument, a larger-than-life sculpture envisioned to stand near Grand Teton National Park. This tribute, led by familiar face and renowned wildlife artist Jocelyn Russell and her team, aims to honor the legendary bear and her cubs while raising awareness about grizzly conservation. Horse racing and Kentucky Derby enthusiasts will recognize the Triple Crown Artist’s impressive and recent work– the massive bronze statue of Secretariat that made its journey across the country and through Louisville last year on its way to its final destination, Secretariat’s home city of Ashland, Virginia. Never one to back down from a challenge, Jocelyn and her team are now in the process of memorializing this much-loved grizzly. 

“399 was an iconic legend in the National Parks and worldwide. Many people picked up her story and she is the most followed bear. I am excited to be able to work on this project and try to bring her to life for everybody. She represents the elements of being wild yet loving as a mother. I think there are so many things that her story will bring to the forefront in all of wildlife and conservation” said Jocelyn. Jocelyn Russell is a renowned sculptor with over 60 public and private commissions and specializes in monumental wildlife bronzes and works alongside Kristen Douglas-Seitz, a bronze sculptor with nine years of apprenticeship under Jocelyn, and Colleen Moore, a sculptor with a background in marketing and design. Wildlife artist and photographer Sonia Reid contributes as a project consultant. 

The fundraising team includes Deanna “de de” Cox, who has over 35 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising and event planning. Robin Hutton, President of Angels Without Wings, Inc., has helped establish several national animal monuments, and Angie Boone Cotton, Project Coordinator, with over 20 years experience as a sales professional, an avid National Parks traveler, and passionate about animal welfare, supports fundraising efforts. Together, they work to raise awareness and support for wildlife conservation. 

Grizzly 399’s story is one of survival and adaptation. Over her 28-year lifespan, she gave birth to 18 cubs and numerous grand cubs. Her most famous litter of quadruplet cubs in 2020 drew national attention, solidifying her as a national icon. Unlike other bears that shied away from human presence, 399 displayed a unique intelligence- choosing to raise her young near roads, thereby avoiding dominant male grizzlies that posed a threat to her offspring. Her choices granted thousands of visitors the rare privilege of witnessing a wild grizzly bear with their own eyes. 

The Legacy of Love monument is currently in the early stages of development. Russell’s design captures the essence of 399’s commanding presence, standing protectively over her cubs, symbolizing her strength and maternal devotion. The initial clay sketch, standing at eight inches tall, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of what will ultimately be a life-and-a-half-sized bronze sculpture. 

“Grizzly 399’s impact has transcended national park boundaries, capturing the hearts of people nationwide,” said Sonia Reid, a Jackson-based artist and photographer. “The new monument will not only celebrate her life but also serve as a lasting tribute to her legacy and the importance of grizzly bear conservation.” 

While the final installation site is still being determined, the project team is actively seeking a suitable location near Grand Teton National Park or in surrounding communities. The goal is to unveil the monument on Mother’s Day, May 10, 2026- a fitting date to honor a mother who defied the odds. 

The monument project is being funded entirely through donations, with proceeds covering artist fees, production costs, installation, and related expenses. Contributions are tax-deductible through the 501(c)(3) organization Angels Without Wings, Inc., ensuring that all funds go directly toward making this tribute a reality. 

Wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, and admirers of Grizzly 399 can support the project by donating, spreading awareness, and following the latest updates at www.399Monument.com. 

As the project gains momentum, one thing is certain- Grizzly 399’s story is far from over. Through this monument, her legacy will endure for generations, inspiring awe and reminding us of the delicate balance between wildlife and human coexistence. 

A queen may have fallen, but her spirit remains unshaken, standing tall in the hearts of those who cherished her wild and wondrous journey. 

For those interested in more from this team, check out and consider supporting The Bond: Two Hearts - One Spirit, a monument honoring the connection between Cody Dorman and Cody’s Wish, to be placed at the Kentucky Horse Park in October 2025. Designed for accessibility, it allows visitors, including those in wheelchairs, to touch the horse’s nose and experience the bond they shared. 

For more information on The Bond: Two Hearts - One Spirit, visit codyswishmonument.com