Dr. Usup Choi

Dr. Usup Choi, 86, formerly of Albany, GA, passed away peacefully at his home in Griffin, GA, on Saturday, October 3, 2026.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, November 28, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Porterfield Methodist Church. Rev. Chuck Knight will officiate. The family invites you to a reception and visitation immediately following the service at The Shackleford House.

Dr. Choi was born on March 7, 1940, in South Korea to the late Dongho Choi and Sonye Kim. Growing up in a country recovering from the hardships of war, Usup learned early the importance of perseverance, determination, and hard work. Despite the challenges surrounding him, he dreamed of building a brighter future and was determined to make those dreams a reality. In 1971, with courage, ambition, and hope, Usup crossed the ocean to begin a new chapter of his life in the United States. He proudly became an American citizen and pursued his passion for medicine, completing his orthopedic training at the University of Tennessee and a fellowship at Vanderbilt University. Through years of dedication and sacrifice, he fulfilled his dream of becoming an orthopedic surgeon.

Dr. Choi made Albany, Georgia, his home, where he established a successful orthopedic practice and devoted more than 30 years to caring for his patients. His work was more than a profession; it was an opportunity to help others, restore mobility, and improve lives. Through his skill, dedication, and years of service, he made a lasting difference in the community he proudly served.

Outside of his medical practice, Usup embraced life with enthusiasm. He especially enjoyed spending time on the golf course, hunting, and skiing. Whether pursuing his favorite hobbies or spending time with those closest to him, he appreciated the opportunities life had given him.

Above all, Usup's greatest pride was his family. He shared 56 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Kyung, building a life together filled with love, devotion, and cherished memories. He was proud of his daughters and grandchildren, and the life he worked so hard to build was a reflection of his love for them.

His journey from South Korea to the United States is a remarkable story of courage, determination, and the pursuit of the American dream. He leaves behind not only a legacy of professional accomplishment but also a beautiful reminder of what can be achieved through faith in one's dreams, perseverance, and a lifetime of hard work.

Survivors include his loving wife of 56 years, Kyung Choi; two daughters, Soo Choi of Chicago, IL, and June Choi Bell & husband John Bell, Jr of Hilton Head, SC; and two cherished grandchildren, Andrew Choi Swedlow and Sophia Choi Swedlow, both of Chicago, IL.

Those desiring to honor Dr. Choi's memory may make memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society, P. O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, Maryland 21741