BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) — Funeral arrangements have been announced for a retired professor at Auburn University who was tragically killed while walking her dog in a park last weekend.

Julie Gard Schnuelle, 59, was discovered deceased in the woods near Kiesel Park in Auburn. An autopsy confirmed that she had been stabbed to death. Before retiring in 2021, she was a professor in the Department of Clinical Sciences, focusing on Large Animal/Food Animal at Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

Harold Rashad Dabney III, 28, was subsequently arrested and charged with her murder.

“Julie was a devoted Mother/Wife/Daughter/Friend/Sister and a brilliant veterinarian whose compassion knew no bounds,” Schnuelle’s son, Tyler, expressed on Facebook Wednesday. “We are still grappling with this unimaginable reality and ask for your prayers, love, and understanding as we navigate our grief. Your respect for our privacy is deeply appreciated.”

A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday at First Baptist Church on South 8th Street in Opelika. The service will begin at 12:30 p.m., with visitation following at 3:30 p.m.

The Julie Gard Schnuelle Annual Scholarship Fund has been created in her memory, benefiting the College of Veterinary Medicine. To contribute, click here.