Jean L. (Laidler) Kesner

Jean L., (Laidler) Kesner, 100, of Main Street, Riverside, died peacefully at home on January 21, 2024 surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Providence, a daughter of the late Joseph and Bessie (Craddock) Laidler, she was a lifelong resident of East Providence.

Mrs. Kesner was a Supervisor/Trainer for the United States Postal Service for 32 years, retiring in 1989.

Jean was a United States Marine Corps Veteran serving during World War II. She served proudly and was honorably discharged at the rank of Staff Sergeant at the end of the war. She was among the first female Marines to enlist from Rhode Island, doing so on her 20th birthday.

Jean was a charter member of the Piecemakers Quilt Group and a member of the E.P. Senior Bowling League. She was an active member of the E.P. Senior Center. She was a past Girl Scout and Cub Scout Leader and a past docent at the Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology.

She is survived by six children who loved her dearly, Michael H. Kesner of Chapel Hill, NC, Bonnie Jean Marks of East Greenwich, Jill Kesner Bowen of Riverside, Becky Kesner Bessette of Riverside, Karen Kesner of Rumford and Peter Kesner of Exeter; twelve grandchildren; twenty-one great grandchildren and one great-great grandson. Her much-loved Yorkie, Mini was her final furry companion. She was the sister of the late Edith Larned and William Laidler.

Her funeral service will be held on Saturday January 27, 2024 at St. James Lutheran Church, 49 Middle Highway, Barrington at 10 a.m. Calling hours are Saturday morning from 9-10 a.m. in St. James Lutheran, Church. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Springvale Cemetery, Rumford. Arrangements are by the W. RAYMOND WATSON FUNERAL HOME, Riverside. For full obituary and online condolences please visit www.wrwtasonfuneralhome.com