Kelly Ann Nester (CHS 2001 Graduate), who was born and raised in Coventry, RI, was educated in the Coventry school system.  English, Math and Photography were her favorite subjects.

In High School Kelly lettered in three sports, Tennis, Basketball, and Softball, and in her senior year was co-captain of all three teams.  In 1999, she was a key player on the Coventry Girls Softball Team, which placed 2nd nationally in the ASA National Championship – the highest honor attained by any Coventry Team.  Kelly played any position, but her favorites were catcher and left field. She made All-State in tennis doubles in her junior year.  In 2000, Kelly was awarded the Linda Horlbogan Memorial Tournament 6th player for her role on the Lady Oakers Basketball Christmas Tournament.

Kelly was a gifted vocalist, singing at public and family functions.  Throughout her high school years, Kelly was a member of Select Chorus, performing under the direction of Brad DeGraide.  She was always a crowd favorite when she sang the National Anthem at the home games during basketball season.
In 2001, Kelly entered Plymouth State University, where she studied Early Childhood Development and worked for the Social Science Department.  At the University, Kelly continued her love of sports, playing intramural softball.  She also expressed her musical talents as a member of the PSU chorus. Kelly was in her junior year at the time of her death in 2003.  She was 20 years old.

Maya Angelou once wrote that “People may forget what you did…but they will never forget how you made them feel.”  Kelly is remembered as a consummate team player, putting the goals of her team and teammates before her personal gains. She is remembered as a dear daughter and sister, a friend to many.  She exuded energy and drew on that of those around her.  Her relationships were and are an accomplishment! She inspired people and genuinely cared about them.  Her infectious smile, her “Kelly Hugs,” are missed by all.