Dr. James Malcolm Kling

Dr. James Malcolm Kling died August 26, 2021 in Perry, Georgia, with his daughter by his side.  Dr. Kling was born January 21, 1936, in Menlo, Georgia, to George Thomas and Lula Whaley Kling.  He married Anne Starr Kling in 1956 and together they had one daughter. 

Dr. Kling obtained his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the age of 23 from the University of Georgia in 1959.  He went on to pursue a Master’s degree from Auburn University in physiology and biochemistry in 1961, and a doctoral degree in pharmacology and toxicology at the University of Florida in 1967.  He returned to the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine in 1961 where he taught anatomy for two years.  His professional career began in 1967 at the Medical College of Augusta where he served as the Director of Office of Research and Support Services, Attending Veterinarian, and Professor until his retirement in 2001.  He taught numerous future veterinarians, physicians, physician assistants, and even medical illustrators and won Teacher of the Year on numerous occasions.  He also served as Interim Vice-President for Research and interim Chair of Pharmacology.  In 2009, he was awarded an Alumni of the Year distinction from the UGA CVM which coincided with the 50th anniversary of his graduation.  Dr. Kling was one of the ground breaking leaders of establishing ethical and humane treatment of laboratory animals as well as ethical research standards.  In 2001, in recognition of his contributions the Malcolm Kling Lectureship in Research Ethics was established at MCG. 

He is preceded in death by his parents and wife.  He is survived by his daughter, Melissa Kling-Newberry (Pep), siblings Sara Pless, Tom Kling, and Carolyn Allen (Chuck), cousin Karen Heffner (Gary), goddaughter, Holly Bentley (James), and numerous nieces and nephews.  A private interment will be at a later date at Tuckston United Methodist Church in Athens, Georgia. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Heart of Georgia Hospice in Warner Robins, Georgia, or to the charity of choice. 

Please visit www.sardisheardfunerals.com to express your condolences. 

Sardis-Heard Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 6125 Houston Road, Macon, GA 31216 has charge of the arrangements. 

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