Cw3 (Ret) Roger Allan Kessing

It is with great sadness that the family of Roger Allan Kessing, 81 announce his passing on November 4, 2023.

Roger was born on September 23, 1942 to AJ and Josephine Kessing in Gary, Indiana.

The family relocated shortly after to Oakridge, Tennessee where he spent most of his childhood.

Roger attended Southern Methodist University in University Park, Texas. During his time at SMU he became a dedicated advocate for civil rights. He was also actively involved in voter registration drives.

After college, Roger served 26 years in the military and throughout his service he was stationed across the world. He retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 3 and went on to have a career in government contracting with Engineering and Professional Services and Communication Support in Augusta, Georgia.

Following his retirement, Roger became a devoted member of Lewis Memorial United Methodist Church and became active with the men’s group and led their Bible study. Before his ailing health, Roger could be spotted every Monday night with a “Pull Over and Pray” sign in front of the church. He loved greeting passing cars with a wave, smile or prayer.

Roger was a kind and selfless man who dedicated his free time to tending the Cemetery grounds.

Towards the end of his life he loved spending time and taking trips with his family. He leaves behind his much loved companion Skye Bleu.

His life was a living example of Ephesians 4:32

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you”

Roger is survived by his wife; Victoria Kessing, sister Barbara O’Conner, Becky Kessing and brother Ronald Kessing. His children Alastair and Suzanne McLean, Chris and Christine Walker, Cammi Riemenschneider, Lex Coulter and Zach Coulter and his grandchildren Cameron Morbey, Chris McNab, Whitney Walker, Christopher Walker, Savannah Walker and Cruz Coulter.

A Memorial Service will be held at Lewis Memorial United Methodist Church on Wednesday November 15 2023 at 11:00 AM in the sanctuary with Reverend Ben Wills presiding. Family will receive friends in the Fellowship Hall at 10:00 AM.

In remembrance of his life the family asks that any charitable donations be made to parkinson.org in honor of his beloved brother Ron.

Roger’s ashes will be interred at Fort Jackson, South Carolina with a visitation headstone to commemorate his life.