Fans and colleagues come together to celebrate the legacy of Rachael Lillis, the iconic voice of Misty and Jessie from Pokémon.
A Heartfelt Tribute in the Heart of New York City
The Pokémon community has united to pay tribute to one of its most beloved stars, Rachael Lillis, whose unforgettable voice helped shape the childhoods of millions of fans. Best known for her roles as Misty, Jessie of Team Rocket, and Jigglypuff in the English dub of the Pokémon anime, Lillis’ memory now lives on in a very special place — a memorial bench in Central Park, New York City.
Unveiled on October 8, 2025, the bench was announced and dedicated by Lillis’ longtime colleagues and friends: Veronica Taylor (the voice of Ash Ketchum), Lisa Ortiz (Sabrina and current Ash), and Tara Sands (Bulbasaur and various characters).
A Labor of Love from Fans and Friends
The bench, located along the scenic path between 106th Street and 108th Street off Central Park West, was funded through a fan-led campaign initiated by Taylor in June 2025. The project, coordinated through the Central Park Conservancy’s Adopt-A-Bench program, reached its $10,000 goal in just over a month thanks to heartfelt contributions from Pokémon fans worldwide.
Sharing the emotional unveiling video on Instagram, Taylor expressed her gratitude:
“Thank you all for your generosity and kindness in helping make this a reality. It has been a labor of love for me, Tara, and Lisa — and a joy working with the Central Park Conservancy. Please stop by Rachael’s bench anytime!”
The plaque on the bench reads:
“In honor of Rachael Lillis, whose iconic voice filled Saturday mornings inspiring generations to come.”
Remembering Rachael Lillis: A Voice That Defined a Generation
Born in 1969, Rachael Lillis became one of the most recognized voice actors of the early anime boom in the U.S. Her performances as Pokémon’s Misty and Jessie brought depth, humor, and emotion to the characters, making them instant fan favorites. She also voiced Jigglypuff, Vulpix, Goldeen, and appeared in series such as Winx Club and Hunter × Hunter.
Lillis passed away in August 2024 at the age of 55 after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Following her passing, her sister shared a heartfelt message via GoFundMe, noting that Rachael “left an indelible impression upon the world of anime.” Fans raised over $100,000 in her memory, reflecting the immense love and admiration she inspired.
A Permanent Legacy in Central Park
Central Park’s Adopt-A-Bench program, which began in 1968, features over 10,000 benches, with more than 7,000 personally dedicated to honor loved ones. Lillis’ bench joins this storied tradition, ensuring that fans from around the world can visit, reflect, and remember the joy her voice brought to Saturday mornings.
In Taylor’s words:
“I hope you can come and sit here and think about Rachael.”
Her sentiment captures what makes this memorial so powerful — a simple place where fans and friends can reconnect with the voice that shaped their Pokémon adventures.
Pokémon’s Official Tribute
The Pokémon Company also shared its condolences in an official statement following Lillis’ passing:
“Her performance in the Pokémon animated series will be cherished by the many fans who grew up with the characters she brought to life. She will be remembered for generations to come, and we will always keep her close in our hearts.”
A Lasting Memory for Pokémon Fans Everywhere
Rachael Lillis’ contributions to the Pokémon universe transcended voice acting — she helped define what Pokémon felt like. Her iconic portrayals of Misty’s spirited energy and Jessie’s theatrical flair will forever echo through the halls of anime history.
Now, in the heart of New York City, her legacy has found a lasting home — a peaceful bench that welcomes fans to sit, reflect, and celebrate a voice that inspired millions to “be the very best.”
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