Julian Darby McCamy passed away on August 24, 2026. He was preceded in death by his wife, Tammy Dawson McCamy; his parents, Kathryn Darby McCamy and Thomas Howard McCamy, Sr.; and his nephew, George Carter McCamy. He is survived by his brothers,Bucky (Judy) and Johnny (Jane); a niece, three nephews and their families. He also had several great-nieces and great-nephews; one great-great niece and one great-great-nephew.

Born in Lindale, Georgia, Darby was raised with his two older brothers. He started playing sports at a young age, where his strong competitive nature set an example for many over the years that followed. After moving to Columbus and graduating from Columbus High School, he left to attend Georgia Southwestern State University.

In 1966, a car accident left Darby paralyzed and confined to a wheelchair. He spent months in hospitals before eventually arriving at the rehabilitation program in Warm Springs. He survived the accident, had the will to live independently, and spent his life helping others do the same.

For his nieces and nephews, having an uncle in a wheelchair was a normal part of life and a lot of fun! Darby would put the kids on his lap and ‘pop wheelies’ in his chair, made jokes about sleep-walking and could out-swim all of them. He prided himself in being able to beat his able-bodied friends and family at golf! He refused to allow a wheelchair—or anything else—determine the limits of his life.

Darby graduated from Columbus College and became an advocate for people with disabilities. He was an accessibility pioneer. He was determined, resourceful and unwilling to give up. He led programs for Independent Living at Roosevelt Warm Springs Rehabilitation Hospital for many years. This is where he met his future wife, Tammy Dawson. She was also a champion for accessibility and truly a wonderful match for Darby. They fell in love and were married until her death ten years later.

Darby’s perseverance was inspiring. He never gave up and he was competitive until the end. He fought hard, all his life, for everything he had. He will be missed - Rest in Peace.

In the spirit of giving back to others, it was Darby’s request that memorial donations be made to St. Jude’s, Egleston’s Children’s hospital or Affinis Hospice if you are so inclined.

A private burial will be held in Rome, Georgia at a later date according to McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, 3874 Gentian Blvd. Columbus, GA 31907.