Helen "Janie" Kesler

Helen Jane "Janie" Kesler 89, of Upland, Indiana, died on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. She entered this world on May 27, 1936 in South Bend, Indiana, born to Joseph and Kathryn (Goss) Smith. She graduated from Mishawaka High School and attended Taylor University. Janie married Jay Kesler on June 7, 1957, he survives. In addition to her loving husband of 68 years, Janie is survived by three children, Laurie (Tom) Green, Bruce (Orlando) Kesler, and Terri (Phil) Collins; nine grandchildren, Wesley (Jessica) Green, Abby (Adam) Becker, Bonnie Green, Nick (Laura) Kesler, Tyler (Meredith) Kesler, Ben Kesler, Joe Kesler, Luke (Jessica) Collins, and Katelyn (Daniel) Rodman; thirteen great grandchildren; and sisters in law Beverly Eckhart and Kathe Nichols. Janie was a beacon of grace, faith, and unwavering devotion. She faithfully served the Lord alongside her husband during his tenures at Youth for Christ and Taylor University. She was a greatly beloved mother and grandmother. In 2022 Taylor University awarded her an honorary doctorate of public service recognizing her as an extraordinary goodwill ambassador and a model of servant leadership. Her spirit of encouragement and hospitality were her hallmark.

A memorial service to honor Janie's life will be at 2pm, Monday, July 7 at Upland Community Church, 439 W Berry Ave, Upland, Indiana. Visitation will be held from noon to 2pm prior to the service. A livestream of the service will be available at uplandcc.org. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Jones-Smith Chapel of Armes-Hunt Life Celebration Funeral Home and Cremation Services. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Upland Community Church, BIG JAWS Youth for Christ, or Taylor University's Jay and Janie Kesler endowed scholarship.