Kate Bloom Kessler
Kate Bloom Kessler died on January 12, 2024 at her home in Charlottesville, Va.
Kate was born on October 4, 1934, in Memphis, Tennessee, the only daughter of Marie and David Bloom. Her father was the sports editor of the Memphis Commercial Appeal newspaper and inspired her love of sports.
On October 18, 1952, Kate married the love of her life, J. Arthur Kessler, Jr. (Buddy), and embarked on their 66 year journey together. In 1959 they moved to Charlottesville where they raised their three children and made many lifelong friends.
Kate became engaged in the community early on, volunteering with numerous organizations including the Community Children’s Theater, the League of Women Voters, Charlottesville Garden Club, the Contemporary Club, and the Miller Center for Public Affairs. She volunteered for a variety of fundraising projects, including the Ronald McDonald House. She was a loyal supporter of UVA sports and would generously offer her assistance to novice score keepers at Disharoon Park.
Kate also ventured into the world of business including producing multiple brochures for R. E. Lee & Son, working for the magazine of the UVA Alumni Association, was a photographer’s assistant, and becoming an entrepreneur with the opening of Clothworks Fabric.
The ornaments created by Kate and the merry band of “Clothes Pin Ladies” over the many years of their friendship and collaboration, adorn Christmas trees worldwide.
Kate will be remembered by friends for her devotion to Buddy, her children, her garden, and her Springer spaniels. Anyone who knew her will also remember her love of cooking, entertaining, theater, shopping, photography, and travel, especially to any beach with Buddy.
Kate is predeceased by her parents and her husband Buddy. She is survived by her children; Sally Ann Kessler, Sue Kessler McConaughy (David), and J. A. Kessler III (Jay) (Barbara).
The family would like to thank Dr. Barbara Post, Patsy Wright, Sally James, Tony Morris and Tosya Kugler.
The interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Botanical Garden of the Piedmont, Charlottesville Symphony at UVA, Ron Brown Scholars, or African American Teaching Fellows.
