Obituaries

Betty Marie Kessler, 94, of Watsontown, PA, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Monday, November 2, 2026, at Wellspan Evangelical Community Hospital. She was born on January 28, 1932, in Riverside, PA, the daughter of the late Archie E Pursel and Eva E. (Kutz) Pursel.

Betty graduated from Danville Area High School in 1951.

She was married for 63 years to her devoted husband, Allen H. Kessler, who preceded her in death on January 3, 2025. They were married on June 17, 1961.

Betty was employed with F.W. Woolworths of Danville, Channel Lumber Company of New Jersey and later cleaned model homes in West Milford, New Jersey in the Crescent Park Development.

Betty was a devoted housewife, dedicating herself to creating a nurturing and supportive environment for her family. She was an avid conversationalist, spending countless hours on the phone, connecting with her relatives and friends.

A spirited traveler, Betty delighted in exploring both nearby and far-off destinations. She loved boating trips to Bald Eagle State Park, embarking on road trips, and visiting national parks. Her adventurous spirit also led her to travel internationally, creating many cherished memories. Betty and her husband Allen often enjoyed attending fundraiser dinners and local festivals, moments that brought joy and connection.

Above all, Betty's greatest joy came from spending time with her grandchildren. Whether it was attending their events or simply sharing stories, they were the light of her life, and she poured her love into every moment spent with them.

She is survived by one son; Alan H. Kessler and his wife, Millie of Watsontown, PA and her beloved grandchildren, Laura Kessler-Daniels and her husband, Patrick of Reading, PA and Bryce Kessler and his wife, Natalie of Watsontown, PA. Betty is also survived by her siblings, Shirley Hewlett, Robert Pursel and his wife Pat, Hazel Share; William Pursel and his wife Rose as well as one brother in-law, Dean Giger. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by six siblings; James Pursel, John Pursel, Archie Pursel, Jr., Mary Shutt, Edna Mae Giger and an infant brother as well as two brother in-laws, Herbert Hewlett and Clark Share.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Betty’s Life to be held on Friday, November 6, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Visneski Funeral Home, Inc., 42 West Mahoning St., Danville, PA with her nephew, Woody Wolfe officiating. Friends will be received from 12:00-12:45pm. Burial will follow in Columbia Hill Cemetery, Danville.

The family will provide flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to Heart to Hand Ministries, Inc. 799 E. Front Street Danville PA 17821-2121.

Arrangements are under the direction of Visneski Funeral Home, Inc 42 West Mahoning Street Danville PA 17821.