So much to say but as Mary, Kathy and I said today at her service - we just didn't know how good we had it even though we worked our butts off!  She was the best boss we've ever had - we always knew she had our backs.  So many good memories - typing 500-600 page grants on typewriters (before computers) and she had those little short pencils writing all over them!  She was the hardest working person I've ever known, but always made time for her family even on the busiest days.   When Mary, Kathy, Jeanette and I took our annual trip to Florida each year, she always told us that if we got in any trouble, to tell them we worked at Samford!  What a legacy she leaves in the nursing profession.  

Being a faculty member in the UAB School of Nursing was a privilege. Working closely with Jean in the graduate program was an important element of that privilege. I am deeply grateful for  the ways in which she supported students and faculty.  Her vision for the future of the profession was inspiring throughout the state and the nation. Though she worked tirelessly, accomplishing so much for nursing and for those we serve her love and support of  family was of utmost importance to her, also .  I am grateful with the family for her presence in all of our lives 

From the first day I arrived on campus as a new MSN student, Jean and I had a rivalry between the University of Nebraska Football Team and what I liked to tease her with, the UAT team.  The two teams played at Legion Field the previous Saturday evening, and she announced during orientation that my team had lost.   Over the years, we exchanged appropriately colored ribbons on our office doors when our teams won or black ribbons when we lost.  Doretta even put a small tree branch painted white and draped in black crepe paper outside my door one time when my team lost.  That fun lasted until her retirement when I presented her with both a crimson and cream ribbon and a black ribbon encased in plastic, so she could turn the ribbons at home depending on a win or loss.  To my chagrin, she didn't have to turn it to black often in recent years.

Jean was a talented educator and administrator, and a true mentor to her faculty, whether novices or experienced.  She recommended me for various positions and ranks, and involved me in professional organizations and Board of Nursing activities.  She was a trusted friend and, as long as she was able, she maintained contact with me after I moved back to Nebraska.

I will never forget her friendship and her guidance in my professional career.  Rest in peace, dear Jean!  You have truly earned the rest.  

Jean was an amazing lady with a legacy that will live on.  As a friend, she supported me in many different situations. During my PhD studies, she was my faculty and a mentor.  Jean taught me the value of compassion with students and co-workers. I will never forget her! We have lost a wonderful lady! 

Jean was an amazing person who devoted her professional life to the advancement of Nursing and Nursing education particularly in Alabama. The impact of her work is lasting having made a positive difference in the health care industry through her attention and dedication to educating the best possible nursing workforce.    She was a strong and committed Leader, mentored hundreds of students, including me, and served as a true friend and colleague.  Her legacy will live on in the lives of those she touched both within her family and well beyond.  Peace be with you.  

OBITUARY

Jean Ann Jacobs Kelley

November 16, 1930 – April 8, 2018

Johns-Ridout's Funeral Parlors

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