Etna E. Kessler's Obituary
Etna E. Kessler (nee Edwards), 92, of Medford, NJ, formerly of Cinnaminson and Mount Laurel, NJ, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025.
She was born in Philadelphia, PA, to the late Franklin and Etna (née Morgan) Edwards. Etna grew up on Rhawn Street in Philadelphia, where she shared her childhood with her parents and, later, her baby sister Diane, who arrived twelve years after her. It was during her time as a Girl Scout that Etna met the love of her life, Walter Kessler, when her troop crossed paths with his Boy Scout troop on a camping trip. Their shared journey began when they were married on December 29, 1956, in Philadelphia, PA.
Etna attended Frankford High School, earned her Bachelor's degree from Temple University, and completed her Master's degree at Glassboro State College (now Rowan University). She dedicated 35 years of her life to teaching at New Albany School in Cinnaminson, NJ, where she worked with students in both 1st and 5th grades. Etna’s passion for teaching extended beyond the classroom, as she also tutored summer school students, nurturing young minds with patience and care.
In addition to her work in education, Etna was a licensed realtor with Ralph Realty, working part-time for several years. She was also deeply involved in her community and faith. Etna was a founding member of Covenant United Presbyterian Church in Cinnaminson, NJ, where she served as a youth advisor, deacon, elder, and ambassador to senior living homes. Her volunteer efforts extended to the Cinnaminson PTA and as a vacation Bible school teacher. Etna’s lifelong commitment to the Girl Scouts of America also held a special place in her heart.
Etna had a love for travel and adventure, with trips to destinations such as Russia, New Zealand, Australia, France, Greece, and Hawaii. She cherished the Jersey Shore, Cape Cod, and St. Pete’s Beach in Florida. Etna enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, whether it was gardening, reading a good book, or spending time with her beloved children and grandchildren, whom she adored.
She will be remembered for her kind and generous spirit, her ever-present cheery disposition, and her tireless willingness to help others. Etna’s love for her family and community will leave an enduring legacy.
Etna was the beloved wife of the late Walter E. Kessler; loving mother of Susan Lynn (Joseph) and Linda Yaffa (Stuart); cherished Mom Mom of Morgan Westman (David), Joseph Lynn (fiancé Erin Boruta), Jeffrey Yaffa (Peri), Steven Yaffa, and Zachary Yaffa (girlfriend Morgan Thiel); Great Mom Mom of Sarah and Paxton; dear sister of Diane Klitzsch (Duane) and aunt of Denean Good (Brian) and Daren Klitzsch.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 2618 New Albany Road, Cinnaminson, NJ on Saturday, June 7th from 9 to 10 am. A service will begin at 10 am, followed by interment in Lakeview Memorial Park, Route 130 N. in Cinnaminson. Etna's service will be livestreamed:
https://www.viewlogies.net/givnish/DvkFZ3FDR?pin=904677
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Etna are going to be made to the New Albany Elementary School’s library.
Please make checks payable to: Cinnaminson Board of Education.
Mail or drop off to:
Cinnaminson Township Public Schools
Attn: Joanna Paquette/Business Office
For: in memory of Etna Kessler
2195 Riverton Road
Cinnaminson, NJ 08077
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