of North Little Rock, AR
April 8, 1931 - September 22, 2020
Mary Jane Smith Kessinger, 89, of North Little Rock passed away on Tuesday , September 21, 2020. She was born outside Clinton, Arkansas to the late Walter Carroll and Arabelle Viola (Hardin) Smith. Mary Jane is also preceded in death by her husband of 63 years Deon L. Kessinger and brothers Clell, John, and Rufus Smith.
After attending the University of Arkansas, her working career included employment at Petit Jean Electric Cooperative Corp. and Dillards.
She was active in the PTA, the Boy Scouts of America, the Methodist Church, and Methodist Women. She enjoyed gardening, family genealogy, the preservation of family history, and the history of her beloved Van Buren County. She was an outstanding cook and delighted in developing and perfecting recipes for family and guests.
She is survived by one son Forest Carroll Kessinger (Terry) and one daughter Kristi Ann Cooper (Walter) of Kansas City. Mary Jane is also survived by four grandsons Matthew Cooper (Alyssa), Steven Cooper (Erika), Bradley Cooper and Daniel Cooper and four great grandchildren.
A private memorial service to celebrate Mary Jane's life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Roller-Owens Funeral Home, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd. North Little Rock, AR 72116
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3 Condolence(s)
Alexander's Salon
Thursday, October 29, 2020
I am shocked and truly saddened to hear that our lovely Mary Jane passed away. As a client of Alexander's Salon we had the pleasure of visiting with her every 4-6 weeks! Always a friendly face with a lovely smile, Mary Jane had a positive disposition. Due to the current climate in the world we have been unable to see Mary Jane but Samantha was able to speak with her monthly and to let her know we looked forward to seeing her again. Mary Jane will be truly missed by her salon family and most especially Alex, her longtime hairdresser, Sonya and Samantha. Our thoughts and prayers are with all who loved her.
Donna and Dan Bartell
Monday, September 28, 2020
Mary Jane Kessinger was a wonderful next door neighbor and friend. We consider Mary Jane, Deon, and theirs our family. Mary Jane was so kind, grounded, understanding, and uplifting. Danny also looked forward to Mary Jane’s baking. The Kessingers were such loving neighbors whom we will miss! Our condolences to Forest and Kristin Ann and their families. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Donna and Dan Bartell and family
Brenda Staton
Sunday, September 27, 2020
Mrs Kessinger was one of my favorite patients at Dr Joe Pabian’s office. I looked forward to seeing her when I would see her name of our schedule. Prayers for the family.