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- The Herald-Mail, Hagerstown, Maryland, Tuesday, 27 January 2026
Ava May Bass Lillard
Ava May Bass Lillard, a beautiful soul whose life radiated love, joy, and resilience far beyond her years, passed away peacefully at home on January 26, 2026, surrounded by her parents, after a courageous two-year battle with neuroblastoma cancer. Though her time on earth was far too short, the impact she made on those who knew and loved her will last forever.
Ava May was born on November 30, 2009, at Berkeley Medical Center. From the moment she entered this world, she carried a light?one that drew people in and made them feel seen, welcomed, and loved. She had a deep passion for people and an extraordinary ability to love fully and sincerely.
Ava May, 16, was a sophomore at Martinsburg High School. She cared deeply for her family, her friends, and everyone who crossed her path, often putting others before herself, even in the midst of her own battles.
For two years, Ava May fought cancer with remarkable bravery, strength, and grace. Her body endured more than any child ever should, yet her spirit never wavered. She faced each day with courage, humor, and an unshakable heart, teaching those around her profound lessons about faith, perseverance, and what it truly means to be strong.
Ava May found joy and freedom in music and dance. Music filled her soul, and dancing was one of the ways she expressed the happiness and creativity that lived inside her. Whether she was moving to her favorite songs or quietly listening, music brought her comfort, peace, and joy?especially during the hardest moments.
Above all else, Ava May was deeply loved. She shared an unbreakable bond with her family, especially her parents, Sarah Beth (Bass) and Michael (Mike) Lillard, and her beloved sister, Annalynn (Peanut) Lillard. Their relationship was filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories.
Ava May is survived by her loving grandparents: Kevin (Bear) and Deborah (Debbie Hoffmaster) Bass of Martinsburg, West Virginia, and Mark and Cathleen (Cathy Jensen) Socola of Prattsburgh, New York. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, James Lillard, and her great-grandparents Earnest (Bill) and Mabel Bass; Robert and Barbara Hoffmaster; Robert and Margaret Smith; and Joseph Lillard and Louise Clairebelle Carr Lillard Abrell.
She also leaves behind her aunts and uncles: Kelly Fee (Steve), Kevin and Michelle Webb, Don Lillard (Melissa), Ernie and Sarah Bass, Rebecca and Chris Hutzler, Joshua Socola (Michelle), Jacob and Mindy Socola, and Carrie Walls, along with numerous great-aunts and great-uncles.
Ava May leaves behind her cousins, who were such a special part of her life: Abby Schojan, Emma Spears, Karissa and Donovan Vanorsdale, Karryn and Alex Hanson, Alicia Livermore, Earnest (Will) Bass, Hailey Webb, Zachary Lillard, Ella Hutzler, Emma Bass, Mackenzie Webb, Joshua Socola, Victor Socola, Damien Caruso, Coleton Socola, Charlotte Lillard, and Kenzie Socola.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Dr. Caroline Joe and her staff for discovering Ava May's tumor; Dr. Tomboc, Dr. Meyer, and the entire Pediatric Oncology team at WVU Children's Hospital, both inpatient and clinic; Dr. Troy and Kayla Mysliwiec; and Hospice of the Panhandle for the exceptional care, compassion, and dedication shown to Ava May and our family throughout this journey. Our girl received the very best care she could have possibly received, and we are forever thankful for the hands and hearts that walked alongside her.
Though our hearts ache in her absence, we are forever grateful for the time we were given with Ava May. Her life?marked by compassion, courage, and an incredible capacity for love?will continue to inspire all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, faith, strength, and a reminder to love deeply, live fully, and treasure every moment.
We know this is not the end, but a promise?that one day we will be reunited with Ava May once again.
Ava May will be missed beyond measure and loved forever.
Family will receive visitors from 6:00?8:00 p.m. on Friday, January 30, at Brown Funeral Home, King Street, Martinsburg. A Celebration of Life with a meal will be held on Saturday, January 31, at 3:00 p.m. at Moler Avenue Church of the Brethren, with Pastor Sarah Beth Lillard officiating. The service will be streamed online for those unable to attend in person and will be available on Facebook at Moler Ave Church.
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Bassett Family Association Database
2009 - 2026 (16 years)