Julian D. Kelly Jr. ’55

Julian, an orthopedic surgeon who immersed himself in Georgia history and family connections, died peacefully Feb. 13, 2021, at home with his family by his side. He was born in Tuscaloosa, Ala., July 26, 1933. 

He graduated from Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Va. At Princeton he majored in English, joined Quadrangle Club, and participated in 150-pound and heavyweight crew. Senior year he roomed with Bill Neilson, Henry Lewis, and Marty Burns.

After graduation he earned a degree from the University of Virginia Medical School, was commissioned in the Air Force as a flight surgeon, and retired as a captain. He did his medical residency at Duke, then returned to Savannah, where he practiced for 35 years. There he was known as a consummate gentleman, widely involved in groups and clubs.

He became deeply interested in genealogy, joined many hereditary societies, and collected prints of ancient Georgia coastal maps. He immersed himself in study of Georgia flora and fauna and painted and carved local shorebirds. Pennyworth Island, aquired by his family and partners, was deeded to the National Park Service and put on the National Register of Historic Places.

Julian is survived by his wife of 41 years, Carolyn; their sons Frederic, Julian, Raburn, and William; daughter Julia; and two grandchildren.