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. Kathryn’s great grandfather, Pastor Richard Diamond 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.
Funeral Home: Penwell Funeral Home
Website: PenwellFuneralHome.com