Kelsy Jenkins Caplinger III, M.D.

Nov 4th, 1937 - Jun 22nd, 2020

Birth Date: Nov 4, 1937
Death Date: Jun 22, 2020
Location: Private
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Biography:

Kelsy Jenkins Caplinger, III, of Little Rock, died peacefully at home on June 22, 2020, having lived with Parkinson’s Disease for many years. He was born on November 4, 1937, in Hope, AR, to the late Kelsy Jenkins Caplinger, Jr, and Ethel Turner Caplinger. He is survived by his younger brother Dr. Thomas R. Caplinger (Mary Ann), Memphis, TN.

He is also survived by his wife Marcia Lecky Caplinger; his children Jeff Caplinger (Debbie), North Little Rock and Jennifer Caplinger Parker (Jamey), Franklin, TN; bonus children Paul (Trey) Lecky III (Nancy), Woodland Park, CO, Laura Lecky Coulter (John), Little Rock and Mauri Lecky Arnold, Tampa, FL; and his eight grandchildren Beth Caplinger, Kelsy Parker, Samantha and Matthew Lecky, Jonathan Coulter, and Rachel, Katherine and Eliza Arnold. He is predeceased by his first wife of 33 years, Elizabeth Owens Caplinger.

Kelsy grew up in Fordyce, AR, where his dad owned a men’s clothing store. Upon moving to Fordyce in the first grade, Kelsy tried out for the Chiggers’ football team, graduated to playing for the BabyBugs in junior high and then had the opportunity to play for the mighty Redbugs during senior high school. The legendary Jimmy “Red” Parker began his coaching career during his junior year under the tutelage of Kelsy and Bill Atkinson. Bill played quarterback and since no one wanted to play center, Kelsy got the job.

Kelsy often said that having a clothing store had its advantages. His mother would select golf outfits from the store for him and his dad to wear to their four-ball tournaments. For each tournament, three outfits would arrive in the mail for each day of the tournament. All were bright colors and Kelsy and his dad had identical outfits, right down to the shoes. Later, Goodwill took a hard pass on the closet full of those outfits, especially the pink pants.

Kelsy graduated with Honors from Hendrix College in 1959 and then attended medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, graduating with Honors in 1963. He completed his Internship and Residency in 1966, followed by a two year Fellowship in Allergy and Immunology. After passing his examinations, he became Board Certified in both Pediatrics and Allergy/Immunology. His dad reminded him at that point that it was time to get to work, so he joined an established group in Little Rock. After eleven years, Kelsy left the clinic and formed the Little Rock Allergy & Asthma Clinic, P.A. It was a bold move and times were uncertain. He cashed in his life insurance policies, and borrowed from the bank at 21% interest to finance the move and to set up the new office. Yes, 21% was the going interest rate in 1981. Things worked out amazingly well and when Kelsy retired in 2005, the clinic had offices in six towns with a staff of 54 and six Board Certified allergists.

One of his proudest achievements was starting the MedCamps Program at Camp Aldersgate in Little Rock in 1971. For almost 50 years, MedCamps has provided a traditional camp experience for children with medical, developmental and physical challenges. For many of the children it is the first time that they have been away from home overnight. The first session had 12 children for one week of Asthma Camp. In subsequent years, camps were created for kids with various conditions such as diabetes, cancer, Cystic Fibrosis, Spina Bifida, and Downs Syndrome. Many lives have been changed by this program.

This unique camp program generated a lot of local and national publicity and Kelsy had many exciting experiences as a result. He had lunch at the White House with President Reagan, landed on an aircraft carrier and was catapulted off of the front end, flew by helicopter with the National Guard into the jungle of Belize to immunize children, had his story included in Montel William’s book A Dozen Ways to Sunday and appeared on his television show in New York City, played two rounds of golf at Augusta National Golf Club and last but not least, was honored to carry the Olympic Torch when it went through Little Rock.

Kelsy received many honors and awards during his academic and medical careers and during his lifetime of volunteer service. In the 1980s he received the Distinguished Alumnus Award from Hendrix College and the Distinguished Alumnus Award from UAMS. Kelsy also received the Distinguished Service Award from UAMS, the Asklepion Award from the Arkansas Medical Society and the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from the Pulaski County Medical Society.

In 1976, Kelsy received the Governor’s Award for Outstanding Volunteer in Arkansas and in 1985 Ronald Reagan presented him with the President’s Volunteer Action Award. In 2000, Kelsy was one of five to be recognized by the American Medical Association as a “Pride in the Profession” honoree for his founding of MedCamps. Kelsy believed that volunteering is the rent you pay for the space you occupy and he lived out his ideals by his actions.

Kelsy was dedicated to many civic organizations. He served on the boards of the Arkansas Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation, Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families, Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities and was a long-time member and past-President of West Little Rock Rotary. He served on many committees and boards at Trinity United Methodist Church and at First United Methodist Church, LR, where he was an active member for the past 27 years.

Kelsy married Liz Owens from El Dorado soon after college graduation. They were married for 33 years and had two children. In 1993 Kelsy married Marcia and he liked to say that she brought three children to their party. Marcia and her first husband, Paul Lecky from El Dorado, also attended Hendrix College with Liz and Kelsy and then Paul and Kelsy were classmates and friends in medical school. Kelsy and Marcia were married on a Monday at 6 am by Marcia’s father who was a retired Methodist minister. There was no one else in attendance and when Kelsy was asked, “why get married at 6 am?” he would answer that the plane left at 6:30 and he saved a bundle on a reception.

Kelsy loved to travel and had a lifetime passion for golf. He was fortunate to be able to play golf with his friends at such places as Pebble Beach and St. Andrews but the ultimate experience was getting to play at Augusta. It was a mystery to Kelsy that with all of the golf he played, he didn’t necessarily improve his game.

The family would like to thank his caregiver and special friend Wally Redd, Dr. Robert Silzer and the home care given by Arkansas Hospice.

A memorial service will be held at a time when it is safe for all of his many friends and family to gather. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations in his memory to MedCamps , P.O. Box 55592, Little Rock, AR 72215, or Elizabeth Owens Caplinger Endowed Scholarship, Hendrix College, Office of Development, 1600 Washington Avenue, Conway, AR 72032.

Condolences(44)

Hugh Pollard

#44

Jul 24th, 2020 5:26 pm

Marcia, been in and out of the hospital lately so my condolences are a bit tardy. I thought the world of Kelsey... he was my allergist for years and it was always a treat to go see him. He was probably one of the nicest and most interesting people I've ever known. His devotion to MedCamp was extraordinary. But not surprising since he led such an engaging and extraordinary life. Here's wishing you and all your family all the best during these sad times. Hugh

Larry Bassett

#43

Jul 9th, 2020 9:25 pm

Having known Kelsey, Marcia, Liz and Paul during my freshman year at Hendrix College, I was saddened as I read of Kelsey's passing. Condolences and prayers for the entire family.

Jim Wohlleb

#42

Jul 1st, 2020 11:08 am

Dear Marcia and family,
Kelsey and I met in Rotary Club meetings when I was still a fresh immigrant to Little Rock. He was one of the friendly people who warmly welcomed me in enjoyable conversations and common projects. It was a matter of years, however, before I came to appreciate his accomplishments and stature. Such was his modest and quiet nature, asking interesting questions but talking about himself only when pointedly prompted (or even prodded). I loved (and now miss) his company, which I finally enjoyed much more often after he joined your (and my) church and I attended the Thursday noon discussions there. Kelsey has benefitted not only the children at Camp Aldersgate but the entire community. I was so privileged to belong to that community. His long and strenuous struggle over, perhaps we can now share his peace and celebrate his giving life.
Jim

Barbara Holt Henderson

#41

Jun 30th, 2020 3:01 pm

Tommy Ray, I was so sorry to hear of Kelsey's passing. My love and prayers go out to all of you. Having graduated one year after him at Dear Old Fordyce High I have many fond memories. God bless all of you.

Frank Dyet

#40

Jun 28th, 2020 5:17 pm

We regret your loss Dr Caplinger was a wonderful Doctor
And a Fantastic family man
Mildred and Frank Dyer
Germantown, TN

Frank Dyer

#39

Jun 28th, 2020 5:10 pm

Kelly was a great Doctor and fantastic family man
Mildred and I enjoyed him greatly
Love to his family
Mildred and Frank Dyer
Germantown, TN

Sidney Don Phillips

#38

Jun 28th, 2020 5:04 am

My sincere condolences to the family. I was fortunate to have know Kelsey through Rotary in West Little Rock, also my association with the medical society . All that knew him will miss his friendship and smile.

Susan Turner Jackson

#37

Jun 28th, 2020 12:06 am

I’m so sorry about Kelsey. Tommy Ray I have so many memories of you and all the family. Aunt Ethel and Uncle Cap. I’ll be praying for the entire family. Susan Turner

Vikki Stefans

#36

Jun 25th, 2020 11:30 pm

We've lost a great man who led a great life. Forever grateful for leadership in Med-Camps/Camp Aldersgate that has meant the world to so many kids and families I care for. That alone would be a legacy, but he was so much more. May his family especially, and all of us who miss him, be blessed with the good memories and the fruits of a life well lived.

Neal Robinson, M.D. UAMS 1963

#35

Jun 25th, 2020 3:41 pm

What great memories I have of our med school years - remembering well both Kelsey and Liz and Paul and Marcia Lecky. Reading of the camp program that Kelsey started is a tribute that will ripple through many lives for generations to come. Rest in peace, good and faithful servant.

Brandi Hutsell

#34

Jun 24th, 2020 8:24 pm

Jenn and Jeff,
I'm so sorry to hear of Kelsey's passing. Y'all are in my prayers.
Brandi
(Jan Owens's oldest daughter)

Audrey Burtrum-Stanley

#33

Jun 24th, 2020 4:32 pm

Dr.C. and I became friends in 1996 as we had both been named as an Arkansas Hometown Hero; from this recognition we were invited to carry 'The Flame' in the Olympic Torch Run that traveled through the streets of Little Rock and North Little Rock, then was transported on to Atlanta, Georgia via the Olympic Train. We shared 'hurry-up-and-wait time' as we were alphabetically positioned and therefore we were standing side-by-side from several Olympic-theme parties, speeches and other events. He was such a jolly, wise fellow we were quickly fresh friends and stayed buddies from then onward. Arkansas has surely lost a very kindhearted, talented gentleman who provided an amazing array of good deeds. May God have welcomed him into a Heavenly Paradise. I was proud to have stood in his shadow.

Carolyn Harrison Stover

#32

Jun 24th, 2020 4:17 pm

Tommy Ray I am so sorry to hear about Kelsey. You and all your family will be in my prayers.

Bob and Mary Anne Kerr

#31

Jun 24th, 2020 4:13 pm

We met Paul and Kelsey as freshmen in Medical School in 1959. Good freinds. They tried to teach me how to play golf, I am still trying. Kelsey was always a good physcian to refer patients to and he also took care of my family.
A really good person.

Carolyn Harrison

#30

Jun 24th, 2020 3:48 pm

Tommy Ray, Mary Ann and family, I am so sorry to hear about Kelsey. Your family was a well known name in
Fordyce. Everyone knew about Caplinger's Mens Clothing Store. I can almost picture your Dad & Kelsey dressed alike in the Golf outfits your Mother picked out. Mrs. Ethel was one kind of a lady. Just know you and all the family will be in my prayers.

Eunice Watson Pierce

#29

Jun 24th, 2020 3:47 pm

Tommy Ray
So sorry to hear Kelsey passed away . Thoughts and prayers are with you and Mary Ann and the family.

laura nelsen

#28

Jun 24th, 2020 3:04 pm

Dr. Caplinger was my allergist when I was young, after Dr Cazort retired, and I must admit, at the ripe old age of 10he was my first school-girl crush. I remember him as being kind, gentle, caring and in later years, such a man of God, and wonderful inspiration to all. He will be missed.

Elizabeth Ann Garner Daniels

#27

Jun 24th, 2020 2:27 pm

So many memories of a fellow classmate of the 1955 group. We began our twelve years together and finished with a great trip to New Orleans which was quite a thrill for most of us. Kelsey was always friendly and helpful to everyone and in reading his obituary, am proud to know about his success in life. I'll always remember this Fordyce Redbug!!! Prayers for his family.

Jana Barnett

#26

Jun 24th, 2020 1:58 pm

I was fortunate to be a patient of Dr Caplinger's for 25 plus years. He was a great physician and a great man. What a legacy he has left.

RONDELL AND JANE HARRISON

#25

Jun 24th, 2020 1:35 pm

Kelsey played the tuba in the Fordyce High School REDBUG BAND My wife Jane and I were members playing and marching alongside with him and his classmates. The Caplinger family were all supportive of the REDBUG FOOTBALL PROGRAM as Mr. Kelsey Sr. Had played football with COACH PAUL BEAR BRYANT as REDBUGS , CHAMPIONSHIP TEAMS in the late nineteen twenties. Prayers extended to his brother Tommy Ray, wife Mary Ann, our FHS Classmates.too.

Mildred Green

#24

Jun 24th, 2020 11:36 am

As a fellow Fordyce Redbug I am very sad to hear the news of Dr. Caplinger’s passing, and offer my sincere condolences to his loved ones and associates. I didn't have the honor to ever meet him but knew his parents and this family was deeply loved and appreciated. My thoughts and prayers will be with his dear loved ones and all whose lives he touched.

Mary Wilson Allison

#23

Jun 24th, 2020 11:26 am

Marcia when times are tough as your Daddy would say, "turn to the Lord for strength." Love you,Kathy, and all the Webb family.

Lori Mabry

#22

Jun 24th, 2020 9:14 am

To Jenn and family
I have so many memories of your precious dad. Patiently teaching us to ski on Hamilton, the congenial host of so many "bunkin" and boy/girl parties, driving us around in the (Cutlas?) convertible, his beautiful photography and seeing him enjoying a Hendrix Football game just a few years ago. He had the most amazing laugh and wicked sense of humor! A true gentleman. The world is a little less bright without his shining smile.
My heart is with you all...
Lori

Susan Robbins

#21

Jun 24th, 2020 7:50 am

Dear Marcia and family,
Sending you all love. I feel so privileged to have known this wonderful human being through my youth at Trinity and into adulthood. What a life well lived!

Lesley (Self) Hicks

#20

Jun 23rd, 2020 11:15 pm

Jeff, Jennifer and all family... I have sooo many fond memories of "Dr'K'"!!! I can't imagine how hard it is for each of you right now!! Just remembering how greatly loved, respected and admired by so many who he loved and helped for so long... My heart is truly breaking for each of you

Scotty Roberts

#19

Jun 23rd, 2020 9:20 pm

Very sad to hear the news of Dr. Caplinger’s passing. He was a very kind man who touched many. Sending prayers and condolences.

Lyndel Dean

#18

Jun 23rd, 2020 8:16 pm

Marcia and family, it was an honor and privilege to know Kelsy not only as my amazing allergy doctor but as a friend. I’m proud that the logo I designed for LRAAC so many years ago is still in use. He will be missed but his legacy lives on in so many ways.

Mitzi Hargan

#17

Jun 23rd, 2020 4:03 pm

I was a patient of Dr. Caplinger from 1974 until he retired. The photo of him brings back many fond memories. He was such a caring doctor, truly interested in finding out the cause of your problem and a workable solution. He also had a great sense of humor. On one visit, he said "I think you are just wired up weird!". I have thought of that so often over the years and smile every time. He will be greatly missed.

Maxine Pruitt

#16

Jun 23rd, 2020 3:47 pm

I only knew him for a short while but it seems like a lifetime. We shared a joke about my habit of wearing flowers to work. I remember when my bronchitis flaired up, being the doctor, he gave me great advice. I would like to send my condolences to the family and especially to Mrs. Marcia.

Karen Culp

#15

Jun 23rd, 2020 3:43 pm

My condolences to the family.
I had the honor of assisting with the care of Dr. Caplinger briefly. He was one amazing man and Marcia is just the sweetest person. I enjoyed making those homemade omelets for him upon his request. Praying for your strength during this time
Karen Culp

Betty Mason Martin

#14

Jun 23rd, 2020 2:57 pm

Dear Marcia,
I was sad to learn that the long-fought battle with PD has come to an end for your family .What a legacy Kelsey has left on this earth! The ripples from the lives he touched will go on and on in many ways. My heart is with you. Love, Betty

Dr. and Mrs. H. F. "Bunny" and June Brown, III

#13

Jun 23rd, 2020 1:41 pm

Dear Marcia and family:
June and I want to extend our deepest sympathy to all of you. Kelsey was a wonderful gentleman and a very knowledgeable physician. He was well respected by all who knew him. I was fortunate to have been to Belize with him to care for many of the native people who needed care. He will now see the face of GOD and be whole again. May he have eternal rest.
Dr. H. F. "Bunny" and June Brown

Helen Herr and Brad Jordan

#12

Jun 23rd, 2020 11:30 am

Brad and I were fortunate to have been in “Bible Boys” with Kelsey. Our times with him and other wonderful friends are cherished ones. Kelsey was in a rare class of people and was always, “First in his class”. He and Brad enjoyed baby back ribs at Bossa Nova.

ANN DIXON PYLE

#11

Jun 23rd, 2020 10:51 am

Marcia and family,
My heart is heavy today as I think of the loss this world, and most especially your entire family, will experience without Kelsey. What an incredible person he was and will always be in your memories. All my love. Ann Pyle

Jamie Pierkowski Ishmael

#10

Jun 23rd, 2020 10:18 am

Dr. Dr. Caplinger, may you rest in love. Thank you for everything you did for me.

John S. Anthony

Jun 23rd, 2020 9:45 am

Marcia, Nancy and I send our sympathy. As you know, Kelsey was a great friend and my Doctor for many years. We send our condolences and love to you!

Sandy and Nelson Barnett

Jun 23rd, 2020 7:37 am

Kelsy was a treasured friend dating from our time at Hendrix. He will be greatly missed. We extend sympathy to Marcia and all the family.

Bill Bloodworth

Jun 23rd, 2020 7:27 am

One of the funniest, most brilliant men I’ve had the pleasure to know. Thank you Kelsey for all you did for me . Rest In Peace, my friend.

Richard F Jacobs MD

Jun 23rd, 2020 7:02 am

What a great man, physician, and compassionate advocate for children. My interactions with Kelsey included over 40 years of professional interactions. I will always remember his work on MedCamps and what they meant to the children of AR. I also loved his laugh and humor. Rest in peace, my friend.

Trisha goodson

Jun 23rd, 2020 6:29 am

Loved Kelsey. Spent many years at Trinity with him and his family. Our children were active in the youth group together.and Kelsy was a foundation for making sure it was fun and meaningful. He left a big footprint.
My love is with all of you.

Carol Rasco

Jun 22nd, 2020 10:42 pm

Thinking of all of Kelsey’s family with love and appreciation for the sharing you did of this great individual. I particularly appreciate his work to Bring about and sustain MedCamps. My son Hamp loved MedCamp, our family loved MedCamp - what a loving legacy Kelsey created!

Jay Holland

Jun 22nd, 2020 10:04 pm

I remember him so fondly from my early years in practice and his ability to organize volunteer programs and succeed.
His compassion and devotion inspired us all.

Jim Guy Tucker

Jun 22nd, 2020 6:13 pm

Betty and I send our deep regrets and sympathy. He was a good man!

Helen Buchanan

Jun 22nd, 2020 5:19 pm

Dear Marcia
Kelsey was such a dear special person and good friend to Gil. You have my sincere condolences.
Fondly Helen