Kathryn Alwilda Jessee, age 27, of Mansfield, passed away Wednesday evening, April 22, 2026 at The James Cancer and Solove Research Center in Columbus. Her death follows a courageous battle of Acute Myelomonocytic Leukemia (AMML).
Born on December 8, 1998 in Westerville, OH, Kathryn was the daughter of Isaac and Michaelann (Hawkins) Jessee. She was a 2017 graduate of Mansfield Christian School.
Kathryn was unique. From her mixed matched socks to her vibrant spirit, she shined wherever she went. She could light up a room just by walking through the door. Always there to make you laugh, cheer you up, cry with you and remind you of God’s love for you. Even in her times of need, she would lay it aside to encourage and lift another’s spirits. Most recently, Kathryn worked as a caretaker, giving her time and energy to those who needed it most, and was always willing to lend a hand in her family’s construction business, doing whatever was needed without hesitation.
Diamond Hill Cathedral and BibleWalk were like a second home to her. From a very young age, Kathryn could be found helping with dinner theaters and parades, plays, gardening and carpet laying. She found deep joy in helping with the nurseries. Children meant so much to her, especially her nephew and nieces, and she poured love and patience into every moment she spent with them. That same tenderness extended beyond people as she had a soft spot for animals, often rescuing strays and secretly caring for them until they were safe and loved.
Kathryn had a creative spirit. She expressed herself through painting, drawing and her love of music. Kathryn also found wonder in the world around her, especially in nature. She enjoyed an good bonfire and loved capturing nature’s beauty through photographs of sunrises and sunsets, preserving moments that others might pass by.
Kathryn will always be remembered for her beautiful eyes, her smile, infectious laugh and giggle, kindness, creativity, and the gentle way she cared for both people and animals. Her life was a reflection of love in action, and she leaves behind a lasting impression on all who knew her.
In addition to her parents Kathryn is survived by her brothers: Joshua Jessee of Mansfield, Abraham (Brooklyn) Jessee of Bellville, Elisha Jessee of Mansfield; paternal grandmother; Sarah Jessee; maternal grandmother: Lien Hawkins; maternal grandfather: Michael (Carol) Hawkins; great grandparents: Pastor Richard Diamond and Dave and Judy Perkins; nephew Brantley; nieces: Oakley and Wrenley; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her grandfather: Dwight Jessee; great-grandparents: Alwilda Diamond, Marjorie (Frank) Cole, and Robert (Carmelita) Hawkins.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 4-7 pm and Saturday, May 2, 2026 from 10-11 am at the Diamond Hill Cathedral, 500 Tingley Avenue, Mansfield, OH 44905 where funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 2 at 11 am. Rev. Charles Carrier will officiate. Burial will follow in Windsor Cemetery, 1712 Windsor Road Mansfield, OH, 44905. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Penwell Funeral Home to help offset the cost of funeral expenses.
Michael and Carol & Family,you have our sincere condolences & prayers
Kathryn was a very special friend of mine clear back to 2018. God had sent her in a terrible time in my life, as I was bedridden & at death’s door. She always encouraged me, prayed for me, and listened to me. She loved turtles & kittens. Kathryn was a make-up artist, & beautiful truly from the inside out. God has a strange way of doing things; her mother and I attended junior high & high school together. She is dear to my heart as well & it was no surprise to me to get close with Kathryn & find this same meek & humble spirit. God had different plans for Kathryn but I KNOW HIS way is better, because He knows all things. I know Kathryn is no longer battling the crazies of this world, or sickness, or acceptance. She is with Jesus in the place we cannot even imagine. Thank YOU, GOD, for Kathryn. We love YOU, our KING, JESUS CHRIST, & we thank YOU for the Hope that if we persevere, we will see her again. Comfort her parents at this time, My GOD. Thank YOU for Your presence, the Holy Spirit, with them. Give them Your hugs of comfort in Jesus’ Name
And Lord, give us the wisdom to know what and how to do things for Mikey & Isaac. All glory, power & dominion are Your’s in Jesus’ Name
Amen
I love You, Mikey & Isaac. I am here if U need anything.
We will miss that beautiful ray of sunshine with the best little giggle and great hugs and smiles That did light up a room. Kathryn I can’t wait to see you again! Give everyone up there a hug from all of us. Aunt Al, Miles,Dwight,Mark, Jackie I bet they came running to you!!!! See you soon
Isaac, Michaelann and family, we are so very sorry to hear about Kathryn. She always was such a joy to be around, especially at the baseball games! She cracked us up all the time! Our deepest condolences to your entire family. Much love and prayers!
kat reminded me how to be a good person.. I will miss her always im sorry for your loss
So sorry for your loss a light gone out too soon praying for the family and all of us as friends be in peace.
I am so sorry for your loss. Kathryn was a sweet girl.
So sorry for the passing of such a young and important member of your family. God’s Kingdom in the near future will bring her into healed and unimaginable happy life. May God and time bring the family comfort and even happiness from consoling each other with loving memories of Kathryn that She blessed you with.
you are really going to be missed Kathryn your smile when you walk into the room. your nickname will always be giggles to me. going to be missed but never be forgotten love you Diane.
My heartfelt prayers and love go out to you and your family in this time of loss. God will carry you through on His wings of love in the days that are ahead of you. May His perfect peace and assurance surround all of you.
Michaelann~
I just want to say how sorry I am to read this today. It must have been 35 years now, but you and your family have always had a place in my heart. I will keep you all in my prayers. I know this world is a little darker now and my heart hurts for you and those who loved Kathryn the most. I hope you will all find peace again.