Harold Kessler

Harold (Hal) Kessler

October 24, 1932 – April 23, 2026

“Teachers often stand in the reflected glory of their students”. (Hal 11/19/25)

Hal was the son of Solomon (Isadore/Iz) and Dora Kessler. Devoted husband of 50 years to Rose (deceased). Loving father to daughter, Marci Neuman (Nick) and Daughter-in-Law, Colleen Kessler. Cherished brother to sister (and best friend), Sandy Sacks (Paul—deceased) and adored “Hal” and Zayah to grandsons, Ross Neuman and Benjamin Kessler.

Hal was a “kid from Kensington” who graduated from Central High School. He was a proud member of the school’s varsity basketball team in 1949-1950. He viewed his experience at Central as transformational, as it set the stage for being a lifelong learner. At Temple University, Hal graduated with honors and earned his M.A, plus 30 credits in American History.

In 1954, Hall began his teaching career at Stetson Junior High School and worked for 38 years as a teacher and administrator for the School District of Philadelphia. From 1957 – 1969, he taught at Northeast High School and remained in contact with numerous former students throughout his life---many of whom credit him with their love of history and learning. In 1969, Hal was appointed as a Social Studies Department Head and assigned to the Office of Curriculum. During this time, he chaired the committee that would write the Holocaust Curriculum Guide for middle and high school teachers. This curriculum was the first of its kind in the country. In 1982, Hal became the Director of Social Studies Division and in 1987 became the Director of Curriculum for the district. Hal also taught history for 24 years at the district’s Standard Evening High School.

Hal retired from the school district in 1992 and went on to work for the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia as Project Director of its Schools of Excellence Program. In 2003, Hall became the Education Director of the Holocaust Awareness Museum. Hal formally retired in 2008.

Hal was an avid reader, gardener, loved movies of the 1930’s and 1940’s, Phillies fan, tennis player and golfer. He especially loved his time on the golf course with his buddy, Jon, as they walked the course and solved the world’s problems in under 4 hours. Hal had an exceptional sense of humor, contributing extensively to the Philadelphia Inquirer’s “Letters to the Editor”—which he said was part of his anger management program!

Marci, Ross and Ben have expressed that Hal’s legacy cultivated a mindset focused on education, hard work and achieving excellence. An exceptional teacher, Hal taught us the pillars of success: effective writing, discipline against procrastination, the “five minutes early” rule, and the importance of always having multiple contingency plans.

Hal was a mensch. He showed up for his family and others that he cared about. His legacy also lives on with his former students, co-workers, and friends.

Hal expressed to his family that we shouldn’t cry or mourn his passing as he “had a good run”. How fortunate were we to see him live to 93 years old! However, there is never enough time with those who we love and those who love us. That said, we will miss him forever.

Our family wishes to thank Dr. John Leighton and the staff at Einstein Hospital for Hal’s consummate care. We also wish to thank Dr. Arthur Chernoff (retired) -- his primary physician for 30+ years.

Contributions in Hal’s memory may be made to: Central High School Alumni Association, World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, Holocaust Awareness Museum and Education Center, or St. Matthew School (Philadelphia, PA).

At Harold's request, services will remain private and be held at the family's discretion.