Laurence R. Kessler

1952 - 2024

Laurence "Larry" R. Kessler, 71, of North Attleboro, MA., passed away on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, MA.

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on August 14, 1952, he was the son of the late Isaac and Sylvia (Rosenblatt) Kessler.

Larry Kessler grew up in the Mattapan–Dorchester area. He studied at the University of Massachusetts – Boston where he spent his junior year abroad at the Sorbonne University in Paris, France. He later graduated from UMASS Boston with a degree in English.

Following his graduation, he became a writer for numerous publications in Canada, Vermont, and Florida, before returning to his home state. He ultimately landed a news editor role at The Sun Chronicle in 1989 after leaving the Brockton Enterprise. In addition to his editorial duties, he wrote his weekly Wednesday column, which meant so much to his loyal readers.

He had an encyclopedic knowledge of New England sports teams. He was infamously known for rooting for the Boston Red Sox. He wouldn't let you forget it. Over the years, Larry spent many years enjoying games at McCoy Stadium with his family, cheering on the Pawsox and enjoying the frequent firework displays. On his 60th birthday, he was given the opportunity to throw out the first pitch. He was also able to take advantage of trips to see the Woosox and Red Sox with friends and family.

Running was one of Larry's trademarks. He ran in 18 marathons and completed 17. The last one he ran was the 100th Boston Marathon. Larry was known to be found running up and down the streets of his neighborhood and throughout the streets of Attleboro while employed at The Sun Chronicle, despite New England weather conditions.

Larry was a loving husband to Lynne Cains. They were married for 35 years, despite Lynne being a Yankees fan. Together they spent evenings watching favorite TV shows including Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy and Survivor. Larry would run the Jeopardy categories on sports, NASA, and history. Larry alone would watch the Hallmark channel. He always wanted a happy ending.

Larry was also a devoted father of two daughters, Arianna Kessler of Manhattan, NY, and Alana Kessler, of Providence, RI. Both of whom were adopted from China. He wrote columns about their upbringings, accomplishments, and aspirations. Recently, he enjoyed cheering on his daughter, Arianna at races and rooting for his daughter, Alana during soccer and lacrosse games.

Larry was more than just a member of the North Attleboro and Attleboro community, he was a friend, colleague, and supporter. He participated in multiple charities including Greater Attleboro Relay For Life, Christmas is for Kids, and New Hope. He dedicated multiple hours helping each charity, whether actively raising money or spreading awareness in his columns at The Sun Chronicle and The Jewish Rhode Island, or in his personal blog.

Besides his wife and two daughters, he is survived by his sister, Sharlene Schwed, his sisters-in-law Sandra Mann and Karen Avakian, brother in-law Frederick Cains, niece Courtney Mann and nephew Darren Mann.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at 9:30 am. at Dyer-Lake Funeral Home, 161 Commonwealth Avenue, Village of Attleboro Falls, North Attleboro, MA.

Burial will follow in Agudas Achim Cemetery, Attleboro, MA at 11:00 am.

Following the burial, Shiva will be observed at 64 Haduk Drive, North Attleboro MA 02760. Shiva visitations will also be observed Thursday, May 2, 2024 from 3:00-5:00 pm at the Kessler residence.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Larry's memory may be made to Greater Attleboro Relay For Life, Christmas is for Kids, New Hope, or the charity of your choice.

For additional information or to send the family a written expression of sympathy, please visit an online guest book at www.dyer-lake funeral home.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Dyer-Lake Funeral Home, 161 Commonwealth Avenue, Village of Attleboro Falls, North Attleboro. (508) 695-0200.