Cathryn Lysbeth Bissell

Cathryn “Cathy” Lysbeth Bissell, 76, of Lake Mary, FL passed away on March 17, 2015. She was born to the late Fremont and Jean Clarke on August 26, 1938 in the city of Manila in the Philippines. Cathy grew up mainly in the mid-West near the Black Hills of South Dakota. She went to Cottey College, the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, and NYU. Cathy received her Masters degree and worked for over 30 years as a Speech Therapist within the New York Public School system. She was a devoted member of the Unity church, worshiped at the Unity Center for Positive Living in Longwood, FL , and was a past President and Vice President of the P.E.O.’s, a philanthropic women’s organization benefiting women through scholarships, grants, loans, and stewardship. Cathy was also a strong supporter of charities for both children and animals. Cathy shared her gift and talent for acting in New Jersey community theater in numerous shows and appeared in 4 shows since moving to Florida 3 years ago. Cathy acted in plays several times with her husband of 11 years, Tom, and the two shared many wonderful times together both on and off stage. Cathy is survived by her husband, daughter Stephanie Obando, step-children John Hermann, Stacy Bissell Horvath and Tyler Bissell, her sister Peggy Verdery, brother Douglas Clarke, and grandchildren Isabel and Samuel and Rowan. Cathy was “family” to Tom’s relatives as well as to her friends. She was greatly loved by all who knew her and will be deeply missed. She leaves us with this message … “God in on your pillow, and He loves you.” A Celebration of Life” service was held for Cathy on March 20, 2015 at Asbury United Methodist Church in Maitland, FL. Memorial contributions can be made to Children International in memory of Cathy and her love for children at https://www.children.org/donate-to-children-in-need. Arrangements are under the care of Baldwin Fairchild East Altamonte. Please leave an online condolence to Cathy’s family by signing the Guest Book below.