Jillian Elizabeth Blais, 19, of Samsula, passed away on Wednesday, July 18, 2012 at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital from post-bone marrow transplant complications. Jillian suffered from HLH (hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis). Jillian was a 2011 graduate and class salutatorian of Father Lopez Catholic High School. She excelled academically in all areas, earning top honors in her classes, and was a member and leader of numerous academic clubs and associations. She was also a four-year varsity cheerleader for Father Lopez. Jillian had been accepted to the University of Florida and would have started in the fall of 2011. A third generation native of the Daytona Beach area, Jillian attended Samsula Elementary and Creekside Middle, participated in 4-H, and was interested in arts, computers, Disney cosplaying, animals, and theater. She will always be remembered for her joie de vivre, exceptional personality, her drive, her persistence, and her openness to help others. She impacted more lives in her 19 years than many people are privileged to do in a much longer lifetime. Jill is survived by her parents, Lisa and Joe Blais of Samsula; her sisters, Caitlin and Rebecca; grandparents Kathy and Joe Blais, and Sandy and Bob Lloyd; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. The family would like to thank all of their family, friends, and acquaintances for the incredible support they have received through this past year. The family would also like to recognize the excellent care Jillian received at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 28, at 10:00AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in New Smyrna Beach. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Jillian Elizabeth Blais Memorial Scholarship at Father Lopez Catholic High School, 3918 LPGA Boulevard, Daytona Beach, FL 32124. Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.lohmanfuneralhomes.com Arrangements are under the careful direction of Baggett and Summers Funeral Home.
