James "Jim" G. Kessel

He was born on November 9th, 1952 in Akron, Ohio to James and Evelyn Kessel. Long time resident of Baton Rouge, he was an avid tennis player and bowler where he met his wife, Deborah Poche. They were married on November 26th, 1988 for 36 years at the time of death.

Jim lived in Niagara Falls and Italy. He was fortunate enough to visit Milan. Rome, Pompeii, and Amalfi coast.

Being fluent in Italian he was called to service as an altar boy at Prince of Peace Church.

Jim graduated from Broadmoor High School in 1970. He worked at Goodyear Plaquemine PVS plant. He attended LSU but decided to work with his hands and opened J&J Cabinets in Baton Rouge. For over 38 years he was well known and loved for his craftsmanship from Tennessee to Louisiana.

In August he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. After a brief and difficult battle, he passed peacefully on Christmas day with family by his side.

He is preceded in death by his parents James and Evelyn Kessel.

Survived by his wife, Deborah Kessel, stepdaughter Tanya Guillory (Shea) as well as his sisters, Ann Good (Bennie), Carrie Davis (Craig) and Jean Fontenot (Gary) along with numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Saturday, January 4, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Greenoaks Funeral Home, 9595 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge. A funeral service will take place at 2:00 p.m. with burial to follow.

To view and sign the online guestbook, please visit www.greenoaksfunerals.com