Mildred "Millie" C. Fessel

Millie lived a life filled with creativity, love, and spirited joy. Exceptionally crafty, she poured her heart into making ceramics and sharing her work at local shows. A self-taught seamstress, she stitched dresses for her family and even created tiny wardrobes of Barbie clothes that delighted all who received them. She shared her talents generously as a Girl Scout and Boy Scout leader at Holy Trinity, guiding young people with patience, humor, and her signature sass.

A wonderful cook, Millie made every holiday memorable with meals prepared from scratch. She cherished the simple pleasures of life-her favorite soap operas (Days of Our Lives and As the World Turns), time spent outdoors tending her garden, and the joy of making homemade jams and jellies. She also enjoyed her time on her father’s farm, where many of her happiest memories were formed. Millie was a devoted member of Holy Family Catholic Church, where her faith was a steady and meaningful presence throughout her life.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James A. Fessel Sr., and her son-in-law, John Austin.

Millie is survived by her children, Gina Carter (Jim), Janice Mallory (Dennis Oster), Jennifer Austin, and James A. Fessel Jr. (Peggy); her grandchildren, Amanda Marks (Michael), Kelly Lehman (Dan), Christopher Carter (Tessa), and Kaelin Carter (Zack McDaniel); her great-grandchildren, Makayla Rose Marks, Zoie Carter, Arlo Carter, and River McDaniel; her sister, Martha Rhoades; and her brother, Al Kirchgessner (Betty).

Millie will be remembered for her creativity, her warmth, her spirited personality, and the love she gave so freely to her family and community.

Visitation will be held at Kraft Funeral Home (708 E Spring Street, New Albany, IN) on Tuesday, December 16th from 12pm- 8pm. Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church (129 West Daisy Lane, New Albany, Indiana 47150) on Wednesday, December 17th at 10am. Burial will follow in Holy Trinity Cemetery.