I too, have lost beloved pets. My most recent loss was my 3 year old Flame Point Siamese -- at a whopping 18 pounds, and all LOVE. Of course, I replaced him with another Siamese -- this time a Lynx Point I rescued from a shelter, but he is so timid, it will probably take him a year to come out of his shell. He is getting braver, but I had a rescue cat once (a Ragdoll) that actually took 3 years to come down off my kitchen cupboards and sit by me in my office. After that is was just a matter of time until my lap became her favorite place.
My heart breaks for you, as I know what you're going through. I always replace those that I lose, as it helps the other animals in my home mourn less as they meet a new friend.