January 19, 1946 – April 30, 2025
Hollis Gerald “Jerry” Kessler, 79, of Buchanan, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.
Jerry was born on January 19, 1946, and was preceded in death by his parents, Cline and Virginia, and brother-in-law Wayne Conner.
Left to cherish his memory is his devoted wife of 58 years, Carol Kessler. Jerry is also survived by his daughter, Karen Lewis (Lee) of Roanoke, and granddaughter, Ashley Fultz (Ronnie) of Martinsville, , and Kaitlyn Hill (John) of Roanoke. His great-grandchildren are Brennan Hollis, Bryson Lee, Karrigan Noell, and Kinsley Reignn Hill of Roanoke, and Ronnie Eugene Fultz, IV, of Martinsville, , as well as sisters- and brothers-in-law, James L. Thompson, Jr., Barbara Conner, Shirley Kennedy; special brother-in-law and friend, Larry Thompson (Becky), and numerous nieces and nephews.
Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, including a tour in Vietnam during 1967-1968. After returning home, he enjoyed a fulfilling career and retired from Aramark Services. A strong believer in community service, Jerry gave generously of his time and talents. Jerry volunteered as firefighter with Buchanan Volunteer Fire Department and faithfully served as a lifetime deacon of Mount Joy Church of the Brethren.
The family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Mount Joy Church of the Brethren in honor of Jerry’s enduring legacy of faith and service.
Visitation was held from 10-11 a.m. with funeral services at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 9, 2025 in the Buchanan Chapel of Botetourt Funeral Home.
