Jill Janus dead: Huntress frontwoman commits suicide after long struggle with mental illness

Jill Janus, the frontwoman of heavy metal band Huntress, committed suicide on August 14 in Portland, Oregon. The 43-year-old vocalist had been battling mental illness for a long time. 

The news of Jill's death was made public by her former bandmate Casey Wood, who posted a statement on Facebook: "I'm in shock and can't stop crying. My X best friend, singer has left the world. She was the biggest sweetheart and I hope that her Legacy lives on as it should! You were supposed to be on your way back here Jill Janus. I love you I miss you, and my door is still open for you always. Rest in peace my sister. [sic]"

Jill was diagnosed with uterine cancer in 2015. Her hard-fought battle against the deadly disease was lauded by the heavy metal community, but unfortunately, she couldn't win the battle against mental illness.

Jill's family had also released a statement to BlabberMouth and it said: "It is with a heavy heart that we announce that Jill Janus — frontwoman for the California heavy metal band HUNTRESS — passed away on Tuesday, August 14."

The statement further read, "A longtime sufferer of mental illness, she took her own life outside of Portland, Oregon. Janus spoke publicly about these challenges in hopes of guiding others to address and overcome their mental illness. Janus was a truly special creative involved with numerous musical projects including her role as vocalist for female metal/hard rock cover bands The Starbreakers and Chelsea Girls."

"Beyond her accomplishments in the music world and her advocacy for mental health issues, she was a beautiful person passionate about her family, animal rescue and the world of natural medicine. She will be missed more than she could have ever known."

"If you or someone you know might be at risk of suicide, call 1-800-273-8255 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. It provides free and confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week for people in suicidal crisis or distress," the statement concluded.

Rest in peace Jill Janus! You will be deeply be missed.