Cathy Schiesser Jansen

Cathy Schiesser Jansen, 67, of Columbia, passed away in her home on Saturday, December 20, 2025 after a long battle with cancer. A native of Jericho, NY, Cathy was born to Warren and Florence Harrison on January 30, 1958.

When Cathy was 15 years old, she met the love of her life, George (17), and they began building the foundation for what became a 52-year love story. They married on July 28, 1979.

Her greatest dream and passion was to get married and have a family. Together, she and George raised three children, Robert, Jenny, and Greg. From pregnancy, to her kids leaving home, to her very last moments, Cathy’s heart was at the center of all she did to ensure her children and family felt supported and loved. This came naturally because of her thoughtful and compassionate nature. She was a devoted wife, mother, Mimi, sister, aunt, and friend to all who knew her.

Cathy worked at GEICO insurance company, followed by George’s family business, and after she and her family moved to Columbia, SC in 1997, she worked for Lexington/Richland School District 5 as an instructional assistant. Cathy quickly became beloved and appreciated, not only due to her hard work and dedication, but because of her genuine way of connecting with others. She was dependable, a good listener, and was always willing to lend a helping hand wherever she was needed. It was rare to see Cathy without a smile on her face, as she truly loved her job and being part of such a close-knit group of colleagues and friends who made work not feel like work.

Cathy enjoyed being part of her book club and Bible study groups, spending time in her garden, crafting, working puzzles, and always trying new recipes on George (with much success). Cathy also doted over her dogs, who she treated like her own children. Her favorite part of her day was taking her dogs for an early morning walk.

Cathy and George belonged to Seacoast Church in Irmo, where their faith grew and they were blessed with many friends who supported her throughout her journey. Her faith and connection with God provided her with the strength to fight her illness until she finally decided she was ready to meet Jesus. She was a true testament to the power of perseverance, hope, and courage.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband George of 46 years, her son Robert (Brittany) Jansen, her daughter Jenny Jansen, and her son Greg Jansen. She also leaves behind four grandchildren, Jonathan, Evan, Hudson, and Reagan Jansen, her sisters, Janis Mitchell-Connor (Rick) and Jill Schiesser Atkinson (Tom), her brother Robert Schiesser (Ellen), sister-in-law, Barbara Stevick, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

The above words cannot begin to capture the essence of who Cathy was and none can do her justice. To truly understand Cathy’s kind and compassionate soul, you had to experience her. Her quick and unexpected wit brought a lightness and humor to any situation, her unwavering love brought trust and assurance to her relationships, and through her thoughtfulness and quiet consideration, she had a way of ensuring her loved ones felt special. She was a true gift to all who knew her and will be missed terribly.

Cathy’s family will be holding a service and celebration to honor a life beautifully lived and her heart, which left a mark on all who loved her. Details will be announced when available.

The Jansen family would like to extend our sincerest appreciation and gratitude to the staff at Lexington Medical Center for the care, compassion, and prayers, given to Cathy over the years of her treatment. Their support and love throughout Cathy’s journey will always be remembered and hold a special place in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Cathy’s name to Pawmetto Lifeline (https://pawmettolifeline.org/get-involved/donate/) or the Lexington Health Foundation Cancer Center Fund (https://lexhealth.com/foundation).