Hannah "Laya" Kesner

Born 6 May 1943 in Detroit, Michigan

Passed away 30 November 2022 in Salt Lake City, Utah (age 79)

Laya received her Bachelor’s from the University of Michigan & her Ph.D. from the University of Utah where she worked as a teaching and research professor in the U’s Chemistry Department. Laya was dedicated to education & served as a role model for women in the sciences and Jewish studies. She loved travelling with her family, attending the theatre, & visiting art museums. Laya was an excellent cook, who was known for her hospitality and dedication to joyfully celebrating Jewish holidays.

Donations in her name may be made to Congregation Kol Ami (https://www.conkolami.org/payment.php), Bais Menachem (https://www.jewishutah.com/templates/donate_cdo/aid/4970020/jewish/Donate.htm), and the Laya F. Kesner Scholarship Award Fund in the Chemistry Department of the University of Utah (www.ugive.app.utah.edu/designation/354).

Laya is survived by her husband Dr. Raymond Kesner; son Benjamin Kesner; daughter Debbie Kesner-Steinberg (Joshua Steinberg); grandchildren Ari & Avi Steinberg; sister Jeanie (Dr. Harry) Tabor.

The funeral is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, December 4, 2022, at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park and Mortuary, 3401 South Highland Drive, Salt Lake City 84106 (livestream: https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTY2OTk2MzQwNjIyMjM0NCZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==). Interment will immediately follows at Shaare Tzedek Cemetery, 942 11th Avenue, Salt Lake City 84103.