Lois Kessler Burkett

Lois Marthene (Kessler) Burkett, age 96, of Crawfordsville, passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Wellbrooke of Crawfordsville. She was born in Montgomery County on February 26, 1929, to the late Clyde and Lucille (Gott) Kessler. After her mother's passing in 1939, her father married Frances (Milligan) Kessler, who became a great part of her life.

Lois married Marvin Burkett on March 18, 1951 in the Whitesville Christian Church.

Lois graduated from New Market High School in 1947 and went on to attend Purdue University earning her Bachelor's Degree in Science. She continued her education at Ball State University, completing courses in elementary education and later obtaining her Master's Degree in Education from Purdue University. She was actively involved in numerous organizations, including, Alpha Xi Delta Sorority, Kappa Delta Phi National Education Honorary, Delta Rho Kappa, Delta Kappa Gamma, Daughters of American Revolution, and Indiana State Teachers' Retirement Association.

Lois began her career as an English teacher and Librarian at New Market High School from 1965 to 1971. Her passion for education led her to Southmont Jr-Sr High School, where she served as the Director of the Resource Center from 1971 until her retirement in 1994.

A devoted member of Whitesville Christian Church, Lois shared her musical talent as a pianist. Her love for reading, puzzle books, Christmas shopping, and traveling with her husband Marvin, brought her great joy. She cherished spending time with her children and grandchildren, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

Lois is survived by her children, Michael (Nancy) Burkett, Kathryn (Jerry) Gilliland, and Mark (Peggy) Burkett; grandchildren, Jason (Juana) Gilliland, Kelly (Jonathan) Shannon, Paul Burkett, Megan (Reed) Sewell, Ben (Cara) Burkett, and Jordan (Stephanie) Burkett; great-grand-children, Chase (Korey) Gilliland, Brayden Gilliland, Sophia Shannon, Amarah Shannon, Adelle Shannon, CJ Sewell, Baylen Burkett, Bryn Burkett, Addison Burkett, and Avery Burkett; great-great-granddaughter, Bennie Gilliland.

She was preceded in death by her parents; stepmother, Frances; husband, Marvin; and sister, Kathryn Kessler who passed in 1939.

A visitation will be held for Lois at Whitesville Christian Church, 3603 S. Ladoga Road, Crawfordsville, Indiana 47933, on Monday January 12, 2026, from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM. Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 10:30 AM with Pastors David Bower and Mike Whitacre officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery South. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Whitesville Christian Church Memorial Fund, 3603 S. Ladoga Road, Crawfordsville, Indiana 47933. Share memories and condolences online at www.SandersFuneralCare.com.