The family of a Lakeland woman killed in a hit-and-run crash is asking for the public’s help in finding the person responsible.

It’s been four months since a hit-and-run driver took Max Braddock’s daughter Jill away from their family. Four months and the family said it hasn’t gotten any easier.

“This is the first time in 20 years that we’re gonna have a Christmas and presents under the tree that Jill won’t be apart of that," Braddock said.

Deputies said just after midnight Jill was struck by a car while she was walking down Clubhouse Road in Lakeland, near Tillery Road on August 9.

Reports show the last text she sent to a friend read, “Seriously there is no sidewalk on Clubhouse Road and cars are speedin :(.”

Moments later she was hit.

The impact was so forceful deputies said she was thrown several feet and discovered hours later by someone passing by.

“Knowing from the medical examiner that she probably did not suffer -- she probably died instantly -- that helps out a little bit," said Braddock. "But it still doesn’t ease the pain that the driver could’ve, should’ve stopped.”

It’s a horrible way for the bubbly 20-year-old to loose her life. A life her mother, Heidi, said was filled with laughter, singing and a loving family.

“Jill was just always smiling" Braddock said. "She never had a bad day. Loved to sing all the time. She was a delight. Just the joy of the party all the time.”

It’s a joy that Jill’s father, Max, said the driver of the car stole from them and they want justice.

“There’s probably a lot of people, several people at least that know something happened and we would like someone to come forward,” he said.

Deputies believe the car that hit and killed Jill is a 2007 to 2009 dark colored Nissan Altima.

There is reward being offered for information in this case. Jill’s coworkers at Sally Beauty Supply helped increase that reward to $6,000. If you have any information you’re asked to contact crimestoppers.