It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Dr. J. David Richardson passed away this morning surrounded by family. He was 76 years old.

A general, thoracic and trauma surgeon, and surgical educator, Dr. Richardson enjoyed a distinguished career as a surgeon and educator in the Department of Surgery for more than 30 years and served as Vice Chairman of the Department for more than two decades. In addition, he served as Chief of Surgery at University of Louisville Hospital since 2005. He has served as Program Director for the General Surgery Residency Program at the University of Louisville and in numerous leadership roles on a local, state and national level, including serving as the 96th President of the American College of Surgeons. He lectured throughout the country and across the globe.

In addition to treating the most difficult patients with great skill and compassion, Richardson has spent a lifetime constantly striving to discover and deliver the latest, most effective treatments. One of the best-known and most respected leaders in American Surgery who made enormous contributions on a national level Dr. Richardson published more than 375 scientific articles and book chapters. In fact, over the past several decades he was instrumental in setting standard protocols and approaches to treatment that now are used in trauma centers all over the country. He has touched the lives of innumerable patients, trainees and students – many of whom stayed in touch with him on a regular basis.

Dr. Richardson has left an indelible impression on the lives our staff, faculty, residents, students and alumni. Please see additional information related to services and a memorial in his honor on Nov. 19, 2021.