It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our dearly loved mother, Elizabeth Ann Kessler, who left us on July 21 (2024) after a life filled with joy. Generous, gracious, gentle and patient, she touched the lives of all who crossed her path. Her infectious laughter broke the ice comforting all in her presence. A friend to many, she could disarm anyone with a hug.
Liz was born in Memphis and moved to St Louis’ Clifton Heights in second grade. She attended Epiphany parish school, Bishop DuBourg High School and St Louis University where she met Tom, who two years later in 1962, would become her loving husband. They would begin a family in Texas, then Nebraska, back to Texas before returning to St Louis in 1969 where they lived in Webster Groves.
Music, faith, church and all things family were the foundations of her existence. For 55 years the house where she raised her family was home to all. And it was here, after battling cancer, she peacefully left us with her loving children at her side.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 am, Tuesday July 30th at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 17 Joy Avenue, Webster Groves. Visitation will be Monday July 29th from 4 to 8 p.m. at Kutis Funeral Home, 10151 Gravois in Affton. Burial will be in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery following Mass.
Among her survivors are her seven daughters: Teresa Stone of Florissant, Elizabeth Kessler of Crestwood, Colleen Elmaoui of Webster Groves, Kelley Zuch of Blaine, WA, Susan Ortinau of Webster Groves, Ann Barnes of Rock Hill and Shannon Kessler of St Louis, four sons, Joe Kessler of Los Angeles, Peter Kessler of Webster Groves, Patrick Kessler of St Louis and Sean Kessler of Webster Groves, two sisters, Lee Froning of Owensville, Mo and Toni McCant of Tuscon, Az, 26 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
Our deepest condolences on the passing of Elizabeth, May her gentle soul rest in eternal peace. RIP
She was generous and kind to all she met, and became a blessing in our lives, as well. She will certainly be missed. While one could entrust her readily with any prayer intention while she was here, now we find comfort in assurance they are heard even sooner.
To have known Liz was to know an angel walking amongst us. She was the most extraordinary example of a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She touched our hearts and lives with her beautiful smile and voice that had the most uplifting cadence – you couldn’t help but feel loved in her presence. Liz – thank you for being a living example of God’s love on this earth. We will miss you immensely and do our best to live your example. Thank you for being the greatest teacher of how a person should live. We love you and will treasure our memories forever.
Liz was one of the warmest and genuine souls. Blessed to call her family and to experience her love and kindness for so many years. Her smile will be very missed.
Prayers for Teresa and her family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
We were so fortunate to have known her. She was such a joy to be with. She will be missed and always remembered.
Tana and Mike Ortinau
Shannon & Sue—
We are so sorry to learn of your mother’s passing. Over the years we have known you we have heard so many wonderful things about her. Please let us know how we can support you during this challenging time for your family.
Liz was an amazing woman who was always willing to learn and grow spiritually and physically. Thinking of all the Kessler’s and their families whom I have had the pleasure of knowing through the years.
Peace and healing,
Dr. Jackie
We are very sorry to hear of her passing. May she be eternally at peace. Love and comfort to her Family and friends. <3 TGF
What a beautiful soul!!! Her smile and quiet kindness could melt any heart❤️❤️❤️
Mary and Glenn Fox
My prayers and Sympathy to all the family on the passing of Liz, She was a Kind and Beautiful person with nothing but Love to give. She will be missed but not Forgotten. Prayers and Love to All the the family
As a Holy Redeemer kid, I remember wondering how she always looked so pretty with so many kids. As an adult with just two children, this has become even more impressive! My condolences to Sean and all of the Kesslers. May peace in comfort surround you.
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. If Sue is a reflection of her mother, she must have had exceptional character and poise. Peace be with you and your family.
Trish and Darren
Mrs. Kessler was a such a sweet soul to be around. Much love to the Kessler family 🩵
I went to Epiphany grade school and Du Bourg H S with “Betty” always a very sweet kind person with a ready smile and laugh and a cute southern accent Condolences to her family
What a shock…Liz was my best friend in grade school and stayed friends all of life. She was a beautiful person and I loved her very much. I was blessed to have her for a dear friend. Luv Pat (Pacanowski) and Phil Mocca.
Liz was my best friend all of my life. She was a beautiful person I am blessed to have her as my friend. Pacanowski Mocca and Phil Mocca
Aaron and Kelley (and Seth) and the rest of your family… our prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. Kelley, I remember her laugh and smile at the few gatherings I attended at your house. May God continue to comfort you🥰✝️
Sending my deepest condolences to Annie and her family. Annie based on your personality and behaviors, I can not imagine your mother as anything but wonderful, kind and amazing for raising you to be so great. Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time!
Sincere sympathy to all the
Kessler family on the passing of your mum Liz, may she rest in peace.
Willie and Mai Murphy
Beth, I am so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. She was always so welcoming. One thing I remember about her was once I spent the night at your house and before we all went to sleep, she came to each child (including me) and asked what was something we were thankful for on that day. She made me feel so special with that one act.
She was an excellent example of faith in action. Her memory will be a blessing.
Barbara Carpentier Byrd
Dear Sue and Family:
Matt and I are so sorry to learn of your mother’s passing. From reading about her, it is clear she has a strong faith and lived good life devoted to her family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Valerie and Matt
Your mother, sister, grandmother was in every way exactly how you described her . She was truly a very special person. I attended Epiphany School with her and she came to many of our class reunions at Pietro’s accompanied by Toni or Lee. I know you deeply miss her and I pray that you will know her presence with you now in a new way.