West Columbia Honors Late Judge Tanya Amber Gee with Riverwalk Statue

An Enduring Companion: Tanya Amber Gee

West Columbia recently commemorated the indomitable spirit of Judge Tanya Amber Gee, who is remembered fondly for more than her influential role as one of the state’s most vibrant young judges. Those lucky enough to know her were instantly enchanted by her rare qualities of kindness, approachability, and empathy.

“As soon as you met her, you immediately felt a connection with her. She had the remarkable ability to comprehend and validate the individuality of each person she met,” said Chris Koon, her widower. “It’s a special gift when someone really sees you — and she had that gift.”

Journey of Resilience: From Law School to State Court to Cancer

Freshly graduated from USC Law School in 2002, Judge Tanya was quickly promoted after starting with the state court of appeals. However, cancer came, and she beat it once just in time for her presidential election. Then, cancer returned.

She fought fiercely and extracted every bit of joy from life. Her inspirational journey evoked admiration and respect from all around. After a defiant struggle, we lost this heroic soul to chondrosarcoma, a rare form of cancer, in 2016.

Homage to Tanya North of Congaree River

Since her departure, those close to her have found a unique way to cherish her memory in her favorite spot: The Riverwalk. This place was her sanctuary where she could bask in the serenity of nature and rejuvenate herself, especially during the stress-filled law school days.

This past Friday morning, presenting a heartfelt tribute to their mother’s commemorative love for nature, Tanya’s children inaugurated a statue of her in West Columbia along the Congaree River.

Her Legacy — A Source of Inspiration

Sabin, her daughter, hopes to uphold and prolong her mother’s legacy by following her striking footsteps. Sabin expressed, “I hope I inherited her work ethic. She worked incredibly hard and maintained kindness in every situation.”

The Riverwalk statue, standing as a tribute, has a tale of resilience, compassion, and courage exhibited by Tanya and aspired by her bereaved daughter. Sabin hopes that people taking a stroll by the statue would feel a connection with her mother, “I hope they think that’s a nice person and realize when they read about her that she was incredible.”

Koon shared his emotional sentiment for the statue’s location, “The final affirmation that we did right by Tanya was when the mayor said this was the perfect place. I can imagine Tanya smiling right now from ear to ear. She would be ecstatic knowing she’s immortalized here.”

The Riverwalk statue of Judge Tanya Amber Gee is a standing testament to her enduring spirit, her contribution to the judicature, and the love she shared with those around her. This monument serves not only as a memory of her inspiring life but also as a symbol of resiliency and compassion for future generations.