"Love, Jill" Memorial 5k and 1 Mile Walk

Join us for the 1st Annual “Love, Jill” Memorial Race, a 5K charity run and 1-mile walk through the streets of Beaver along the beautiful Ohio River on August 15, 2026. This event is held in loving memory of Jill Renee Littler, who passed away on September 22, 2025, after a courageous battle with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma.

Jill’s strength was forged long before her cancer diagnosis. At just 15 years old, she was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease, a fight she carried with her for 36 years. Through countless surgeries, hospital stays, treatments, and daily challenges, Jill faced her illness with quiet resilience, grit, and grace—never allowing it to define her or diminish the love she gave to others.

In early 2025, Jill was diagnosed with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma. She approached this battle with the same determination and grace that defined her life. On May 2nd, Jill underwent major surgery that included extensive lymph node removal, partial mandible (jaw) removal, and complex reconstruction using a titanium plate, followed by reconstructive surgery. Her treatment continued with 33 rounds of radiation and multiple rounds of chemotherapy. Despite setbacks, severe side effects, and overwhelming physical challenges, Jill pushed forward with unwavering resolve, always focused on her family and the people she loved.

In August 2025, Jill was hospitalized after developing a blood clot in her lung. Following additional procedures, doctors discovered the cancer had spread. With love, clarity, and extraordinary courage, her family made the difficult decision to bring her home, where she passed peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on September 22, 2025. Race weekend falls on Jill’s birthday, making this gathering an especially meaningful celebration of her life.

Jill was the heart of her family and a bright light in the Beaver County community. She lived guided by the values she cherished—love of family, service to others, a strong work ethic, kindness, and gentle leadership. Whether as a coworker, friend, volunteer, or quiet supporter behind the scenes, Jill had a rare way of lifting people up. This event honors not only her memory, but the compassion, strength, and grace she shared so freely with everyone she met.

Participants may choose between a 5K run or a 1-mile fun walk. The event will also feature a Chinese auction and a 50/50 raffle.

All registered participants will receive a commemorative race t-shirt, available for pickup at the event.

 
Awards
Plaques awarded to the Top Overall Male and Female finishers
Medals awarded to the Top 3 Male and Female finishers in each age group:

15 & Under
16–19
20–29
30–39
40–49
50 & Over
 
Why “Love, Jill”?

Jill ended every note, message, and reminder the same way she lived her life—with love. To honor that legacy, her family created the annual “Love, Jill” Scholarship, transforming her signature into a lasting gift for young people in our community. Through this scholarship, Jill’s message continues to inspire future generations:

“I believe in you.”

We invite the entire Beaver County community to join us in celebrating Jill’s life, honoring her legacy, and showing her family just how deeply she was loved.

Join fellow runners on August 15, 2026 for the "Love, Jill" Memorial 5k and 1 Mile Walk. It's a fantastic 5K, 1.6K featuring a flat and fast course in Beaver.