Beloved Rescue Lion Jillian Dies at Alpine Sanctuary

After nearly two decades at Lions Tigers & Bears, the African lion passed away due to age-related health issues.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:24pm

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph of a lion resting in a grassy field, with soft pools of warm light and color creating a dreamlike, nostalgic atmosphere that captures the peaceful mood of Jillian's life at the sanctuary.After nearly two decades of rehabilitation and care at the Lions Tigers & Bears sanctuary, the beloved rescue lion Jillian passed away, leaving a legacy of resilience and second chances.San Diego Today

Jillian, an African lion rescued from poor conditions in Louisiana in 2007, has died at the Lions Tigers & Bears Exotic Animal Sanctuary in Alpine, California. The sanctuary's founder said Jillian's life was a "true success story" after she was given a chance to live out her days in a safe and nurturing environment. Following the death of her sibling Bakari in 2022, Jillian held a special place in the hearts of staff and visitors as the sanctuary's only lion.

Why it matters

Jillian's story highlights the important work of animal rescue organizations like Lions Tigers & Bears, which provide lifelong care and rehabilitation for exotic animals that have suffered abuse or neglect. Her passing is a loss for the local community that has followed her journey over the past 19 years.

The details

Jillian was rescued alongside her siblings Suri and Bakari in 2007 from an overcrowded facility in Louisiana. Due to the poor conditions of her early life, Jillian suffered from chronic health problems. Along with age-related issues, the sanctuary made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize Jillian on Friday morning. At the sanctuary, Jillian was known for lazing in the grass with her siblings and eagerly anticipating mealtimes.

  • Jillian was rescued from Louisiana in April 2007.
  • Jillian's sibling Bakari died in 2022.
  • Jillian was euthanized on Friday, April 10, 2026.

The players

Jillian

An African lion rescued from poor conditions in Louisiana in 2007 who lived at the Lions Tigers & Bears Exotic Animal Sanctuary in Alpine, California for nearly two decades.

Bobbi Brink

The founder and director of Lions Tigers & Bears Exotic Animal Sanctuary.

Suri

Jillian's sibling who was also rescued from Louisiana in 2007 and lived at the sanctuary.

Bakari

Jillian's sibling who was also rescued from Louisiana in 2007 and lived at the sanctuary until his death in 2022.

Lions Tigers & Bears Exotic Animal Sanctuary

A nonprofit animal rescue facility located in Alpine, California that provided a safe and nurturing home for Jillian and other exotic animals.

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What they’re saying

“Jillian's life is a true success story. She was rescued from horrible conditions and given the chance to live out her life in a safe and nurturing environment. She was a longtime member of our family and deeply loved by so many. While this loss is incredibly difficult, we take comfort in knowing she experienced the life she always deserved.”

— Bobbi Brink, Founder and Director, Lions Tigers & Bears

“Jillian's legacy is one of resilience, love and second chances. Her story will continue to inspire Lions Tigers & Bears' ongoing mission to rescue animals from neglect, abuse and exploitation.”

— Lions Tigers & Bears

The takeaway

Jillian's story is a powerful example of the transformative impact that animal rescue organizations can have on the lives of exotic animals that have endured abuse and neglect. Her resilience and the sanctuary's commitment to providing her with a safe, nurturing home for nearly two decades is an inspiration for the continued efforts to protect vulnerable animals.