Cadence Marie Usiak passed away on May 5, 2026, at the age of 18. She was born on March 16, 2008, on a cold day in Buffalo, New York. From the very beginning, Cadence was a determined spirit, arriving four weeks early and showing a true fighting heart that remained with her throughout her life.

Cadence led with a servant heart, always helping anyone she could. She was full of love and joy, with a kindness that touched everyone around her. She was a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and friend, whose sweet smile and radiant energy will always be remembered.

Cadence was the adored daughter of Chris and Stephanie Usiak and the beloved sister of the late Aiden Usiak. She loved animals, especially her rescued feral cats, Pepper and Kenny, and her two dogs, Jax and Atticus, whom she cherished. She was deeply loved by her grandparents, John and Ann Koss and Sue and Steve Usiak, as well as her aunts and uncles, Brittany, Steve, Andy, and Tommy. She also leaves behind many extended family members and friends. Cadence's warm and loving nature made it easy for anyone to feel at home around her. Her smile and laugh could truly light up a room.

Cadence was a dedicated student at TandemEDU, where she was completing her senior year and preparing to begin the next chapter of her life at Georgia College and State University, studying pre-med. She had big dreams of becoming a doctor and helping others. She hoped to focus on dermatology, inspired by her own experiences, with the goal of improving the lives of young people facing similar challenges. Cadence will graduate with high honors, maintaining above a 4.0 GPA throughout all four years of high school, and completing 54 college credit hours through dual enrollment at Toccoa Falls. She was driven, ambitious, and deeply committed to her goals. She believed in hard work, never took the easy path, and was always seeking to grow and challenge herself. Her strength and determination were truly inspiring.

Cadence loved being with her family. Some of her favorite moments were spent cuddled on the couch with her mom, watching Bravo shows and laughing together over the simplest things. She loved getting lost in a good romance book and could finish one in a single day. She also shared a special bond with her brother through their love of Pokémon cards, opening packs and trading together, creating memories they both cherished. Like her brother, Cadence was a gifted piano player and had been playing for over 1O years. Music was one of her many beautiful talents. Along with her gifts, she had a strong desire to give back. She volunteered at Benton House and was an active member of the Beta Club at her school. Cadence loved life and found joy in spending time with the people she loved most.

Cadence will be remembered for her kindness, her deep love for others, and her desire to make a difference. Her presence filled every room, and though her time here was far too short, she lived fully and with purpose. She treasured her family and made every moment with them count. She loved deeply and was deeply loved in return.

Her life and memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be missed every day, and we find comfort in knowing she is in heaven, reunited with her brother and watching over her family.

A memorial service for Cadence will be held at 4 o’clock, Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Chapel of J.C. Harwell and Son Funeral Home with Father Mario Lopez officiating.  The family will gather with friends from 3:00 PM until 4:00 PM prior to the service.