Joyce B. Kessler, 86, of Newport passed away on Saturday August 16, 2025 at Premier at Perry Village surrounded by her family.   

She was born on February 3, 1939 in Tuscarora Township, Perry County, the daughter of George A. Gish and Dorothy Longacre Gish.  

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, George A. Kessler, whom she married August 9, 1958 having shared 67 years of marriage.   

She was retired from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, but her primary job was a homemaker and a mother. 

Joyce is survived by her 4 children, Patricia and Mary Ann Kessler both of Newport, Gregory Kessler of Mifflintown, and Randy and his wife Crystal Kessler of Newport.    Joyce was the proud Grammy of three granddaughters, Jennifer (Kessler) Ricciardelli and her companion Justin Brown of Spring Mills, Sarah (Kessler) and her husband Christopher Boyer, Jr of Newport and Alexandria (Kessler) and her husband Adam Forlizzi of Newport and her 5 great-grandchildren, Ella Forlizzi, Caroline and Elena Boyer, Stephen Ricciardelli,  and Payton Brown.   

She was the oldest of five children and is survived by her four siblings, Richard and Kathleen Gish of Liverpool, Robert and Bonita Gish of Newport, Ruby (Gish) Murray of Newport, and Robert and Julia (Gish) Lenig of Liverpool. 

Joyce resided at North Ridge Personal Care Center in McAlisterville for the last 7 years where she made many friends.  She enjoyed bingo and crafts and sitting on the porch watching the birds and taking care of the flowers.  She loved Robin Naylor and thought of the staff there as family.   

Joyce enjoyed gardening with her daughters and her husband, George.  She grew the most beautiful morning glories!  She loved spending time with her grandchildren and watched countless hours of Cinderella and Mickey Mouse cartoons.  She played checkers, tic tac toe and the best version of patty cake ever.   

She especially enjoyed scenic drives, spontaneous visits with friends and family and dining out.   

A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 29th at 6:00 pm at the David Myers Funeral Home, Newport with David Tanner officiating.   There will be a time of visitation from 5:00 to 6:00 pm.  There will be no viewing.  Interment will be at Bucks Church Cemetery in Buffalo Township, Perry County at the convenience of the family.   

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the charity of your choice.