Rachael Lillis Cause of Death: How Did The Voice Actor for Misty and Jessie in ‘Pokémon,’ Die?

• Rachael Lillis, the voice actress known for voicing Misty and Jessie in the English dub of Pokémon, died on August 10, 2024, at the age of 46.
• Lillis was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2024, which eventually spread to her spine, affecting her ability to walk.
• A GoFundMe campaign was set up by her sister, Laurie Orr, to help with Lillis’ medical expenses. 

Rachael Lillis, the voice behind the beloved characters Misty and Jessie in the English dub of Pokémon, died on August 10, 2024, at the age of 46. Lillis’ death came after a brief but intense battle with breast cancer, which she was diagnosed with in May 2024.

According to reports, the cancer had spread to Lillis’ spine, negatively affecting her ability to walk. Despite her declining health, Lillis remained grateful for the outpouring of love and support from her fans and colleagues.

Her sister, Laurie Orr, had set up a GoFundMe campaign in May to help with Lillis’ medical expenses, which quickly gained traction and raised over $100,000 from generous donors.

Veronica Taylor, Lillis’ co-star who voiced Ash Ketchum in the Pokémon series, shared a tribute on social media, expressing her grief over the loss of her dear friend.

“It is with a very heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of Rachael Lillis on Saturday evening, 10 August 2024,” Taylor wrote. “Rachael was an extraordinary talent, a bright light that shone through her voice whether speaking or singing. She will be forever remembered for the many animated roles she played, with her iconic performances as Pokémon’s Misty and Jessie being the most beloved.”

In the wake of her death, Lillis’ sister Laurie Orr shared a message on the GoFundMe page, expressing her grief and thanking everyone for their support.

“We ask for peace, for now, as her family grieves this loss,” Orr wrote. “My heart breaks losing my dear little sister, though I am comforted knowing she is free.”