Julian Arthur Koplen

Julian Arthur Koplen (1932-2026)

It is with profound sadness that the family of Dr. Julian Arthur Koplen announces his passing on June 17, 2026 at the age of 93.  He died peacefully among family after a brief illness. Born in Danville, Virginia on June 27, 1932, he was the son and only child of Florence and Lawrence Koplen.

Julian lived a life defined by his deep commitment to his family, community, and faith. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, affectionately known as “Pop-Pop”. Remembered for his extraordinary intellect, humility, warmth, humor and wit, he was a patriarch, mentor, hero, and pillar of support to many in need. His legacy lives on through cherished family members and friends, and the countless lives he touched as a physician.

A graduate of George Washington High School (Danville, VA) in 1950, Julian was the Associate Editor and Co-Editor of The Chatterbox school newspaper, a Columbia Scholastic Press Association Delegate, Vice President of the Honor Society, member of the Press Club, Science Forum, Quill and Scroll, and more. He won first place awards in the Virginia News Writing Contest and Western District Debating. He was voted “Most Likely to Succeed” and “Wittiest” in his senior year. 

He obtained his Bachelor of Science (BS) and Medical Doctor (MD) degrees from the University of Virginia in Charlottesville.  He was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa in April 1953. He consistently finished with high distinctions and honors throughout his academic life.

In his early years as a physician in Boston, MA, he served in the United States Public Health Service, then moved to Danville, Virginia to open a private medical practice that spanned from 1964-1999. He proudly served the Danville community as one of its most beloved doctors.

Julian held a close bond with his Jewish faith. He was a member of Temple Emanu-El in Myrtle Beach, SC during his retirement years from 1999-2026.  There, he gave generously of his time and leadership. He served not only as Temple President, but assumed other leadership roles to include website creator, chief temple photographer, religious school teacher, editor at large, database creator/administrator, and more. In addition, he created and maintained the temple’s memorial book for 2 decades.  As a Danville, VA resident until his retirement, he was an active and devoted member of Temple Beth Shalom.

In addition to his busy life as a physician and devoted family man, Julian’s endless curiosity led him to explore multiple hobbies such as music, photography, fishing, boating, fine dining, gardening, tropical fish keeping, cooking, and more. He loved comedy, broadway shows, and live talent acts. His combined unmatchable wit and love of humor earned him the reputation as chief family comedian.

Julian was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jacquelyn Lee Cassoy Koplen, and son, Andrew Barry Koplen.  He is survived by his children Michael Alan Koplen (Esther), Eileen Perri Koplen Sullivan, and Deborah Jill Koplen, his ten adoring grandchildren:  Ilana Hiller (Yisrael),  Michali Machado (Yonatan), Eli Sheva Horowitz (Chaim), Ariella Koplen, Gabriella Schickler (Gilad), Seth Mathlery (Lauren), Jason Koplen (Shelley), Stacey Falciano (Anthony), Matthew Koplen, and William Dvorkin, plus eighteen great grandchildren.

Dr. Koplen was laid to rest at Aetz Chayim Cemetery in Danville, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Temple Emanu-El, 406 65th Avenue N., Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 or to www.Thyca.org.

Zichrono livracha—May his memory be a blessing.

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