Published October 10, 2025
Melissa Cole, Pensacola State College Foundation
Few embody compassion as fully as Liesje Kelly, whose legacy of service continues to inspire all who knew her.
In September, Liesje’s family established the Liesje Kelly LPN Scholarship at Pensacola State College to honor her life and extend her care to future generations of nurses. Supporting students in the Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program at PSC, this scholarship celebrates Liesje’s lifelong devotion to helping others—a passion that was both a career and a way of life.
For more than twenty-five years, Liesje served her patients with unconditional kindness, often going far beyond her duties to offer comfort, advocacy, and hope. In her community, she was the neighbor who gave rides to medical appointments, the friend who showed up with diapers and clothes for new mothers, and the volunteer who spent her holidays serving those in need. Her faith guided her every action, and her compassion left an indelible mark on everyone she touched.
Liesje’s impact on the lives of others is felt in her absence after her passing in June. Former patients, neighbors, coworkers, and loved ones have shared stories and anecdotes of their fondest memories of her. A long-time patient expressed her heartache, saying, “She always cared so much. She was a constant support. This world is tough, but she was always soft, kind, and quick to offer encouragement—even through her own struggles.” Another emphasized how brightly Liesje’s light shone in their own life by saying, “She was so much more than a nurse. We had many laughs over the years talking about what was going on in our lives. You never knew what conversation you would end up in with her, but it was always heartfelt.”
Liesje’s love for her family was unmatched. At home, she spent time cultivating fruits and vegetables in her garden, tending to her beloved ‘fur babies,’ and crafting goodies for friends and family. With her own hands, Liesje built an addition on her home to welcome her mother, and found pure joy in quality time spent with her husband, children, and new granddaughter. Liesje poured her energy into creating a home filled with laughter, warmth, and happiness. Her presence was her family’s greatest gift.
Liesje’s connection to PSC began years ago when she attended Pensacola Junior College from 1994 to 1997, completing three programs: an associate of science in medical secretarial technology, a certificate in medical assisting, and a license in practical nursing. This scholarship brings Liesje’s journey at the College full circle, allowing her spirit of generosity to live on through the education of future nurses at PSC.
The Liesje Kelly LPN Scholarship will assist students enrolled in the licensed practical nursing (LPN) program. Each recipient will carry forward Liesje’s legacy by healing, inspiring, and uplifting patients of their own.
Contributions to this scholarship can be made online by selecting “Liesje Kelly LPN Scholarship” from the drop-down menu at: https://foundation.pensacolastate.edu/opportunities-to-support-psc/scholarships/.
Gifts can also be made by check payable to “The Pensacola State College Foundation.” Checks can be mailed to or dropped off at: Pensacola State College Foundation, 1000 College Boulevard, Building 17, Pensacola, FL 32504.
Are you interested in establishing a scholarship to honor a special person or cause in your life? Contact Mikenzie Francis-Opperman, Director of Foundation Scholarships at (850) 484-1788 or mfrancis-opperman@pensacolastate.edu for more information.