Stephen Ray Kessler

CLAXTON: Stephen Ray Kessler, 67, passed away on February 16, 2024 at his home under the care of Ogeechee Area Hospice. Ray passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Ray was born in Claxton on February 10, 1957. Growing up, Ray lived in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Alabama and Tennessee. Following in his dad’s footsteps, Ray worked in the coalmines before moving back to Claxton in 1980. Once back in Claxton, Ray worked at Georgia Pacific for 19 years. After leaving Georgia Pacific, Ray owned and operated his own lawncare business, worked in construction, and was employed at Arborgen until December 2023. He truly enjoyed hunting and fishing, and his love for the outdoors was shared with anyone who wanted to tie on a lure or trek through the mountains and hollers of West Virginia.
He was proceeded in death by his parents, George and Evelyn Kessler.

SURVIVORS: Ray leaves behind his loving wife of 35 years, Marie; his adoring daughter Emily and precious grandson, Archer; his wonderful sister Karen (Dennis) Tippins. Also left to treasure his memories are his, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, several nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, aunt, uncle and several cousins.


VISITATION: Monday, February 19, 2024, 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home.

FUNERAL: Monday, February 19, 2024, 2:00 p.m. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home Chapel.

BURIAL: Bull Creek Baptist Church Cemetery, Claxton, Ga.

PALLBEARERS: Clay Tippins, Coy Tippins, Joseph Stanfield, Trey May, Gary Williams and Scott Nobles.

REMEMBRANCES: Evans County CARES, P.O. Box 186, Claxton, GA., 30417


Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements
“Our Family Serving Your Family”
Since 1917
(912) 739-3338
www.nesmithfuneralhome.com