Maxine S. Kessler

Maxine S. (“Mitzi”) Kessler, age 80, of Philadelphia, PA, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026 after a long series of illnesses. Born in York, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Natalie L. (Williams) Kessler and Sol W. Kessler, a local merchant.

Mitzi was a graduate of York Suburban High School (1964) and University of Akron (1968), and attended a summer program at Bar-Ilan University in Israel. Mitzi dedicated her professional life to public service as a caseworker for the Pennsylvania Department of Welfare, where she worked for over 35 years, was active in the Pennsylvania Social Service Union (PSSU), and made many lifelong friends.

Mitzi loved music (which may have originated at her father’s record store in York), was an avid reader of fiction, and was interested in news, television (“all day, all night”) and popular culture. She enjoyed playing Wordle and Connections daily with her sister Peggy. Mitzi made new friends wherever she went. She had a strong and vocal interest in Democratic politics, having volunteered on several local, state and federal campaigns. She championed gun control, women’s rights, anti-racism and other liberal values, and could not fathom the corrupt and heartless political direction the United States has taken under the Trump presidencies. As the oldest of 19 first cousins, Mitzi was a pioneer and role model within her family.

Mitzi is survived by: her devoted sister, best friend and caregiver, Peggy Kessler of Philadelphia; Peggy’s longtime partner Robert (“Bo”) McKendrick; her brother Robert (“Bobby”, “Bob”) Kessler, his wife Nancy Prahofer and their son Steven Kessler, of New York City; a large, close extended family; and many good friends. She was pre-deceased by her parents and her longtime best friend and partner, Harry Steptoe.

Mitzi will be remembered by her family, friends, former colleagues, and all who knew her for her warmth, smile, rebellious nature, kindness, generosity, dedication, and quiet strength.

Mitzi’s survivors expect to arrange a memorial gathering for family and friends in the near future. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Democratic candidates or organizations, or other causes that reflect Mitzi’s values.

Services entrusted to the Walter J Meyers Funeral Home, Jenkintown, PA. Condolences: www.MeyersFH.com