Sad news .......

[Stan Hillis]

It is reported by a gunsmith on the DGJ forum, this morning, that Jim Kelly, owner and operator of Darlington Gun Works in Darlington, SC has passed. It was also reported that his wife had recently passed as well. Many on here likely will recall Mrs. Kelly's role in the shop handling paperwork, etc.

Jim had led a colorful life as a younger man when he served as Gen. Curtis LeMay's personal gunsmith, and an armorer in the USAF, in France, during WW II. He trained under French doublegun 'smiths during that stay as well.

An icon has passed from among us. RIP, Mr. and Mrs. Kelly. Thank you for your kind service to the "community". Also, condolences to his nephew, Taylor I believe, who has taken up Jim's mantle and has become quite impressive in his knowledge of vintage doubleguns.