John Kessler Obituary
There will also be a memorial service on January 3rd at 2:00 PM at Connections Community Church: 303 True Apple Way, Inwood, WV, 25428
It is with deep sorrow and love that we mourn the passing of John Edward Kessler, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a proud veteran, who left his earthly home on December 6, 2025, in Jacksonville, Alabama, surrounded by his loving wife and children. He was 64 years old. Born on June 5, 1961, in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, John dedicated his life to service and family. He was a distinguished veteran of the United States Army, where he served as a 1st Lieutenant Intelligence officer. Following his military service, John had a long and commendable 30-year career with the United States Border Patrol, from which he retired, as a GS13 and served as an acting Assistant Director of both the Firearms and Asset Management programs. He was the first firearms instructor hired at Harpers Ferry and built the advanced firearms instructor training program used to develop instructors that is still used today. John's favorite pastimes included hunting and fishing, but his greatest joy came from spending time with his beloved family. He was a faithful member of Cedar Springs Baptist Church. He is preceded in death by his father, Edward Kessler of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, and his sister, Kathy Kessler of Harrisonburg, Virginia. John is survived by: His devoted wife, Anita Barksdale Kessler of Jacksonville, Alabama. His sons, Christopher Cauble (Chelsea) of Oxford, Alabama, and Tyler Kessler of Osaka, Japan. His daughters, Kayla Kessler of Oxford, Alabama, and Kendall Kessler (Vesko) of Kearneysville, West Virginia. His cherished grandchildren, Aiden and Aspen. His mother, Betty Billadeaux of Stuart, Florida. His sisters, Mary Ker (Tom) of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, and Connie Kessler of Stuart, Florida and Numerous extended family members. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
The family ask that in lieu of flowers donate to the Wounded Warrior Project.
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3865 US Highway 431, Anniston, AL 36206
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