November 23, 1938 – May 13, 2014
Born in Ashville, North Carolina, the son and grandson of physicians, Paul Kelly, MD was an immensely influential dermatologist. Educated at Brown University where he was one of only three African American students, he went to medical school at Howard University where he was mentored by John A. Kenney Jr, MD. Following dermatology training at Henry Ford Hospital, Dr. Kelly moved to the King/Drew Medical center in Los Angeles where he served as Chief of Dermatology for more than 40 years.
Known as a “quiet pioneer,” Dr. Kelly dedicated his life to researching issues associated with skin of color. He trained close to ninety dermatology residents and authored many publications including an iconic textbook entitled “Dermatology for Skin of Color.” Dr. Kelly was editor-in-chief of the Journal of the National Medical Association. In addition, he was president of the American Dermatological Association, the Association of Professors of Dermatology, and the Pacific Dermatologic Association. In retirement, he became a Fulbright Scholar and studied keloids in Oman. He died from complications of Parkinson’s disease.
