Dr. Kelly Kearse retired this spring from Knoxville Catholic High School after serving there since 2001.
“Known for his sense of humor (look out for those practical jokes!) and love of music, Dr. Kearse has been more than just a gifted chemistry teacher—he’s a nationally recognized scientist and speaker, and a published researcher in the field of blood analysis, with a special focus on eucharistic miracles and the Shroud of Turin. His work challenges assumptions, explores new methods, and continues to draw the attention of scientists and theologians alike,” the school posted on Facebook.
“But Dr. Kearse isn’t just known for his incredible research—he’s also blessed our community with his incredible eye behind the lens. His photography has captured countless moments of joy, faith, and pride at KCHS. We are so thankful for Dr. Kearse’s faithful service, brilliant mind, and creative spirit. You leave behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of Irish students and staff. Thank you, Dr. Kearse! Enjoy your well-earned retirement—you’ll always have a place in our hearts and halls!”
Dr. Kearse’s photos have appeared many times in The East Tennessee Catholic over the years.
He earned his bachelor of science degree in biology at the University of South Carolina, his master of science degree in biology from Virginia Commonwealth University, and his Ph.D. in immunology from the University of Kentucky.
Following completion of postdoctoral fellowships at Johns Hopkins (biochemistry) and the National Institutes of Health (immunology), Dr. Kearse became a principal investigator at NIH in immunology. After several years, he transferred to the East Carolina University School of Medicine to have the opportunity to do both research and teaching.
In 2000, he semi-retired from laboratory research to relocate to his original hometown and teach high school science, something that he had always been interested in doing. He was at Oak Ridge High School in the year before arriving at KCHS.
