James Paul "Jim" Lieser

James (Jim) P. Lieser, 76, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and educator, went into the arms of Jesus on May 25, 2025, in Tallahassee, Florida. Born in Dover, Ohio, Jim spent his life shaping the minds and hearts of thousands, leaving a legacy of kindness, dedication, and unwavering faith in Jesus.
Jim received his bachelor's degree from Toccoa Falls College in northern Georgia where he met his wife, and the newlyweds moved to Tallahassee to serve at North Florida Christian School. Jim devoted 52 remarkable years of his career to North Florida Christian School, where he faithfully served as a school administrator, guidance counselor, principal, teacher, bus driver, and mentor to many. His passion for education and his ability to inspire those around him made him a pillar of the community. Thousands of students and colleagues were privileged to experience his wisdom, guidance, occasional discipline, and always genuine care for everyone.
In 1972, Jim married his wife, Elizabeth Stowe Lieser. Their bond was one of deep love and partnership, and together they built a life filled with joy, love and memories. Jim was the proud father to three children: Benjamin (Kim), Rosemary Tapia (Ryan), and Rebekah Dorn (Joseph), who inherited his love for education and his unwavering commitment to family. His nine grandchildren (Ella Dorn, Kara Tapia, Caleb Lieser, Katelyn Tapia, Finleigh Dorn, Sydney Lieser, Abraham Dorn, Hudson Dorn, and Rowen Lieser) were his greatest pride and joy. Anyone who talked to him knew he loved the Lord and his family (and his hobby of train collecting).
Jim was also survived by two sisters: Marie Hodges and Jeanne Lumpcik (John); three nieces, one nephew and numerous cousins and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, James V. Lieser and Frieda S. Lieser, whose love and support shaped the man he became. He carried their values of humility and generosity forward, living a life rooted in compassion, faith, and service.
Jim was a man who connected deeply with all who crossed his path. He had an extraordinary ability to make people feel seen and valued, radiating warmth through his genuine smile and heartfelt conversations. His life was a testament to selflessness, as he often placed the needs of others above his own and took great joy in seeing their successes. Whether through quiet encouragement or authoritative leadership, Jim impacted countless lives, leaving a profound effect on students, colleagues, and friends alike. His faith in God was steadfast-shining brightly through his words and actions-and making him an example of how to trust God in all times.
A celebration of Jim's life will be on Thursday, May 29, with the family receiving guests at 12:30 p.m. and funeral services at 2:00 p.m. at North Florida Baptist Church, 3000 N. Meridian Road. Jim will be laid to rest at Tallahassee Memory Gardens, 4037 N. Monroe Street immediately following the services. Kelly Barber of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the family with arrangements. The family requests that, as an alternative to flowers, donations be made to a college scholarship being set up in his name in honor of his lifelong dedication to education (James P. Lieser Scholarship, c/o North Florida Christian School, 3000 N. Meridian Road, Tallahassee, FL 32312).