Kay Louise Geisel, 73, of Chambersburg, PA, passed away on Sunday, September 28, 2025.
She was surrounded by loved ones at her home, and she passed away peacefully. She remained steadfast as a loving wife, mother, and grandmother to the final minutes.
Born on August 16, 1952 in Coatesville Pa, Kay was the child of Kenneth Bone Jefferis and Barbara Lippiatt Jefferis.
She grew up in Coatesville and graduated from Coatesville High School in 1970 then Elizabethtown College in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education. Many will remember Kay as she enjoyed a long and fulfilling career as a teacher working in the Waynesboro School District at Mowery Elementary, among other schools in the district.
A lifelong lover of animals she spent countless hours volunteering at PetSmart and the local animal shelter.
On June 30, 2005, Kay married Thomas L. “Tom” Geisel. Together they cherished raising their newly combined families, and nothing brought Kay greater joy than the arrival of grandchildren, to whom she gave her boundless love and devotion.
They enjoyed spending time at the Outer Banks and travelling. France held a special place in Kay’s heart as she enjoyed the culture and connection to her own father’s service in World War II.
She was not only a devoted mother and grandmother, but a hands-on presence who delighted in nurturing her grandchildren.
An avid Rolling Stones fan, Kay attended several concerts over the years. She enjoyed knitting and cross-stitch and leaves behind some heirloom quality pieces for her family to enjoy. The Fourth of July held a special place in her heart, marked by gatherings she hosted with remarkable organization and warmth. She delighted and excelled at hosting gatherings, holidays or otherwise.
Kay was a dedicated and selfless wife, mother, and grandmother and she leaves behind a family that will sorely miss her guidance and love.
Kay is survived by husband, Tom; her children, Stephen K. Hershberger, wife Angie, of Waynesboro; and Katie L. Boryan, husband Andy, of Chambersburg; grandchildren Kamden, Emma, Henry, Alice, and Caitlin; step children Tommy and Nicki Geisel, Jess and Phillip Carbaugh, and Abby and Christian Santos, all of Chambersburg; and grandchildren, Atlee, Jack, Francine and Thomas. “Her laughter and love will forever echo in our hearts.”
Her funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, October 2, in the Chapel of the Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home Chambersburg, with Rev. Rick Noll officiating.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, we respectfully request a memorial contribution to Cumberland Valley Animal Shelter or to Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center.
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In memory of Kay L. Geisel, please consider making a donation to one of the following charities:
