Doris Keesler

In Loving Memory of Doris Ann Keesler

July 18, 1945 - February 27, 2026

Doris Ann Keesler, a woman of unwavering faith, tireless energy, and a legendary green thumb, passed away on February 27, 2026, in Honesdale, PA. She was 80 years old.

*A Life of Growth and Grit*

Born in Callicoon, NY, on July 18, 1945, to Russell and Margaret Keesler, Doris grew up in the quiet hills of Galilee, PA. She attended Damascus High School until leaving early to bravely begin her adult life. While she started her journey young, Doris never lost her desire to pursue more. With a characteristically feisty spirit, she later resumed her education to obtain her GED. This achievement paved the way for a diploma in cosmetology from the Empire Beauty School, where she didn't just practice the craft-she taught it to many others. Never one to sit still for long, Doris eventually transitioned into healthcare, retiring as a Certified Pharmacy Technician at Wayne Memorial Hospital.

*Faith and the Soil*

Throughout her life's journey, Doris remained deeply connected to her Savior, Christ Jesus. Her faith was her anchor, and she was a familiar, welcoming face in many local congregations over the years.

When she wasn't serving her community, Doris could be found in her garden. Her mantra was that her energy came from having her hands in the soil. She was a master gardener who made those with "black thumbs" look on in awe; her secret was simple hard work and, as she often noted, the amazing power of a little horse manure.

*A Legacy of Love (and "Four Hellion Boys")*

Doris's greatest challenge-and her greatest pride-was raising her four sons. She was famous for yelling the name of every single son before finally landing on the one she actually meant, thanks to the frustration those four boys often caused her. She frequently reminded them that she had earned every single gray hair on her head by raising "four hellion boys," and looking back, she might have been correct.

She was preceded in death by her parents Russell and Margaret, sister Patricia Hankins, and her beloved son, Randy M. Nolan. Doris is survived by her sister, Janet Roberts; her sons and their wives: Edward C. Nolan (Judy), Roger J. Shaffer Jr. (Judi), and Jason M. Shaffer (Julie). She leaves behind a legacy of strength in her six grandchildren: Makayla Lamberton, Shaun Nolan, Calla Shaffer, Honour Keaton Shaffer, Logan Shaffer, and Dakota Shaffer, as well as a large circle of extended family and dear friends at the Maple City Apartments.

*Celebration of Life*In honor of what would have been her 81st birthday, a Celebration of Life will be held on July 18, 2026, in her hometown of Galilee, PA.

Details regarding the service and a place to share memories will be available on a dedicated Facebook tribute page in the near future.