Some pets are more than companions—they’re legends in their own right. Jill the squirrel was one of those rare spirits.
Rescued as a baby and lovingly raised by her family, Jill quickly became a vivacious and unforgettable part of their lives. With her bright eyes, expressive tail, and unmistakable charm, she had a personality that could light up any room—or social feed.
In 2017, I had the honor of painting Jill’s portrait. At the time, I had just started to focus more seriously on pet portraiture, and that piece felt like a turning point. Jill’s image—so full of life and character—captured the attention of many, and in many ways, she helped launch what would become a thriving part of my art business.
Her family loved her dearly, and it was clear from the beginning that she wasn’t just a pet—she was family. That’s what made painting her such a joy. I was lucky enough to paint two portraits of Jill over the years, and each time I sat down with my brushes, I felt like I was celebrating her spark all over again.
Sadly, Jill passed away last month, after 12 beautiful years of life. My heart goes out to her family—losing a beloved pet is never easy. The grief is heavy, especially after so many years of shared routines, tiny adventures, and quiet companionship.
But what a gift she was. Jill not only brought joy to her own family, but she also touched countless others who followed her story and saw her immortalized in art. I’ll always be grateful to have played a small role in preserving her memory through my paintings.
Rest in peace, sweet Jill. You were truly one of a kind.
Jill showed up in my Instagram feed and I was hooked. It was, and still is in my heart, my most favorite page. Like many, I instantly fell in love with her! She was always a bright spot even on my most challenging days. To Jill’s humans, thank you for sharing the gift of Jill.
Special souls take care of these amazing animals. I know the bond you can have with a squirrel and Jill will live on through your art.
Thank you. 😊
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