Alice “Elaine” Kiser
Born on August 1, 1943, Elaine was the daughter of Ralph and Harriet King. She attended Haw Creek Elementary, Biltmore School, and graduated from A. C. Reynolds High School in 1961. From an early age, Elaine knew she wanted to become a teacher — a calling that became the defining passion of her life.
Elaine earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Western Carolina University. She completed her student teaching at Beaverdam Elementary School before beginning a long and devoted career at Charles C. Bell Elementary School. Over the years, she impacted countless students and families through her dedication, patience, and love for teaching. Her influence on the school community was so meaningful that Charles C. Bell Elementary established the Alice Elaine Kiser Character Award, an honor presented each year to a deserving student who exemplifies strong character and values.
In addition to teaching, Elaine coached girls’ basketball and served in many leadership roles throughout her career, including basketball commissioner, PTA representative, and Teacher of the Year nominee. She retired in 2000 after a remarkable career spent shaping young lives.
Elaine was preceded in death by her husband, John Ralph Kiser, Jr. Together they shared a wonderful life filled with travel and adventure, visiting places such as Hong Kong, Germany, Hawaii, and many others. They especially loved spending time at Lake James, waterskiing, volunteering at East Asheville Recreation Club, and working together in the concession stand at A. C. Reynolds football games.
Elaine also had a well-known passion for her lawn — some might even say an obsession. She took great pride in mowing her large yard with her beloved John Deere tractor and would occasionally mow neighbors’ lawns as well.
She is survived by her sons, Kevin (Stephanie) Kiser and Brent Kiser. Although her boys often joked about where they ranked, there was never much debate that Stephanie held a special place in Elaine’s heart.
Elaine was a devoted grandmother to Emma Grace, Caroline, Layla, and Kira, whom she adored deeply. Layla and Kira’s mother, Michelle, also remained a cherished part of the family. Her lifelong teacher’s spirit carried naturally into grandmotherhood as she shared wisdom, encouragement, and unconditional love with each of them. One of her greatest joys was taking her granddaughters to Dollywood or the lake during their childhood years, creating memories they will treasure forever.
She was also preceded in death by her three brothers, Gene, Bud, and Lonnie, who lovingly called her “Sis.” Elaine is survived by many beloved brothers- and sisters-in-law, as well as numerous cherished nieces and nephews.
A charter member of Beverly Hills Baptist Church, Elaine faithfully served her church for many years as a Sunday School teacher, nursery worker, kitchen volunteer, and dedicated worker in the church food pantry. Her faith and servant’s heart were evident in all she did.