John R. Kessinger, 87, of Halifax, Massachusetts died on January 19th, after a long illness.
Born in Boston in 1934, he was the oldest child of Alice and Guy Kessinger.
He received his Bachelors degree from Boston State College in 1955, and in 1963 he earned his Masters of Education from Bridgewater State University.
John spent most of his career as a school teacher in the Scituate public school system. He taught different grade levels and also served as principal. After his tenure in Scituate, he taught at the Plymouth House of Corrections where he was determined that every one of his students could read proficiently so they could obtain their high school diploma.
In retirement, John enjoyed reading, working in his garden, calling bingo, traveling, and singing with his two beloved chorus groups. He was an active member in the Knights of Columbus and a former member of the Halifax Kiwanis. He always lit up the room with his enormous smile, caring personality and great sense of humor. He would help anyone in need and enjoyed spending time as a volunteer with the Helping Hands organization. He was a devout Catholic who attended daily Mass.
John was the husband of the late Marjorie Kessinger who was the love of his life for over 25 years. He is survived by his brothers Robert Kessinger of Hull, James Kessinger of Texas, his sister Marilyn Smith of Woburn, and the late Irene McCann of Plymouth, Marie Sullivan of Weymouth and Lawrence Kessinger of Boston. He leaves behind six children: Maryellen Kessinger of Weymouth, John Kessinger (Katey) of Duxbury, Joanne Taylor (James) of Hingham, David Kessinger (Angela) of Lincoln Park New Jersey, Nancy Kessinger of Scituate and Carolyn MacDonald of Hanover. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Jennifer, Christopher, Michael, Stephen, Victoria, Kaitlyn, Michaela, John, Sarah and Jason as well three great grandchildren: Abigail, James and Isabella. He also leaves behind many friends, nieces and nephews who loved being in his company.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his services on Tuesday, January 25th from 4- 7pm at the Blanchard Funeral Chapel, Plymouth Street (Rte. 58 @ the rotary) Whitman. A funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, January 26th at 9am at Our Lady of the Lake Church, 575 Monponsett Street in Halifax.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in John's honor, to the Knights of Columbus, Council number 11390 c/o Holy Apostles Counsel Parish, 575 Monponsett Street, Halifax, MA 02338.