Born in Athens on September 20, 1927, he was the son of Dr. William Harvey Cabaniss, MD and Bessie Brightwell Cabaniss. He was predeceased by his beloved sisters: Helen Cabaniss McPherson, Alice (Wiggie) Cabaniss Langdale and Bessie Cabaniss Hopkins and niece, Janet Grier McPherson.
Dr. Cabaniss was a graduate of Athens public schools and the University of Georgia (1949) where he was a member of Phi Delta Theta and elected to Phi Beta Kappa. His college years were interrupted by service in United States Army during which time he worked at Walter Reed Hospital in virus research. He graduated from the University of Virginia School of Medicine (1953), interned at Emory University Hospital (1954-1957) following which he became Board Certified in Dermatology. Dr. Cabaniss commenced his medical practice in Athens in 1957 and retired in 2004.
Dr. Cabaniss was a member of many professional organizations, and a founding board member of the Athens Academy where he served for many years and was named a Life Trustee during the school's 50th anniversary in 2017.
Dr. Cabaniss is survived by his wife, Ann Cox Kemp Cabaniss and his three children: Ellen Cabaniss Bawcom of Sarasota, FL, William Harvey Cabaniss, Ill of London, David Brightwell Cabaniss (Gloria) of Albany, NY; and stepchildren: William Larkin Kemp, Ill (Robin), Governor Brian Porter Kemp (Marty), Julie Wilson Kemp Rief (Rocky). He is also survived by nieces: Helen McPherson Costantino (Mark), Margaret McPherson Smith (Don); and eight grandchildren.
Due to the outbreak of Coronavirus in Georgia, to protect the health and safety of our friends and family, the family of Dr. William Harvey Cabaniss Jr. MD, has cancelled the memorial reception that was scheduled for Saturday, March 14, 2020 at The Sexton’s House at Oconee Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Athens Academy Cabaniss Library Fund, 1281 Spartan Lane, Athens, GA 30606.
Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
