Kathryn V. Jansen

Kathryn Virginia Carmichael Jansen passed away Saturday, May 12, 2012, in McKinney, Texas, after sharing a joy-filled 90 years with those lucky enough to have known her personally or to have simply crossed paths for a moment or two. Kay, born in Meridian, Miss., in 1921, was relentlessly curious about all that life offered. That fascination made her a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, artist, teacher, cook and friend par excellence. She was a bon vivant totally at ease in any social situation, whether in the company of high-powered international dignitaries at a formal dinner or distracted 3-year-olds learning how to write their names and keep their underpants dry. There were no distinctions when it came to people – all were deserving of your attention and friendship, especially children. Many charities and organizations benefited from that generous nature as well. The joy of discovery enriched Kay in all waking moments, be it traveling the world from end to end (Panama to Japan, India to El Paso), perfecting the fine art of ceramics, planning and cooking for gatherings big and small, handing a wedding present to “sweet” Kevin Costner as an extra in the movie “Fandango,” perusing less-frequented aisles at the local hardware store just because “you can find interesting things there, too,” or showering motherly affection on all her “precious babies.” Most of all, that “tough old bird” taught her children – those by blood and those she met – about love, family, dignity, integrity, loyalty, responsibility, patience, the importance of being true to yourself and making the most of every second in life. Don’t be afraid, she said, and don’t get cheated with the time you’re given. Kay Jansen, unafraid, did not get cheated. Kay was preceded by her husband of 54 years, Lt. Col. Joseph Frank Jansen, brother Vaughn Carmichael, sister Nancy Carmichael Lobczowski and grandson Kyle Jansen. She is survived by all of her children: Virginia, George and Shelby (Olive) Sidrony; Judith, Tony, Kevin and Kim (Topolski) Davis; Joe, Martha (Crall), Keith and Julie (Pulley) Jansen; Janina, Steve, Stevie and Cameron Coiro; Lauren Davis; Todd Topolski; Kelli (Good) Jansen; Marc Pulley; Emily Olive; Jacob and Jordyn Davis; Matthew, Meghan and Melissa Topolski; and Kylie and Wyatt Pulley – as well as hundreds, if not thousands, of friends. An intimate graveside memorial service will be 11 a.m. Friday, May 18, at Fort Bliss National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be made to the American Heart Association (to honor Kay’s large heart), Children’s Medical Center-Dallas (for her love of children) or to a favorite personal charity. Services Entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home-East.