James Stewart Kehler - Obituary

r. James Stewart Kehler, 89, of Annapolis, MD, died on October 2, 2026 at home, surrounded by family. He was the loving husband of 13 years to Elana Byrd Kehler and was predeceased by his wife of 50 years, Joan Ogden Kehler. James (Jim) was born on June 1, 1937 in Michigan but lived most of his late childhood and young adult life in Cincinnati, OH. He was the son of Eleanor Chace and Stewart White Kehler and brother to Thomas C. Kehler and the late John G. Kehler. Jim graduated from Princeton University in 1960 and Cincinnati University Medical School in 1965. He moved to Annapolis in 1970 and was a psychiatrist in the Annapolis community for over 45 years, serving as Chief of Psychiatry in 1981 and 1991 at Anne Arundel General Hospital. Jim was a dedicated and hardworking doctor who valued his patients and found deep fulfillment in his work. Jim loved and cherished spending time on Martha’s Vineyard, where boats and sailing became his passion. He was a longtime member of the Annapolis and Edgartown Yacht Clubs. A lifelong learner, he loved to read and was always juggling projects around the house. He was also an avid listener of opera and classical music. Jim was proud of his family and the life they shared and will be missed. Jim is survived by his two daughters and their spouses, Katherine and Ted Farnham of Portsmouth, RI and Eloise and Paul Mahoney of Providence, RI and his four grandchildren, Meghan and Stewart Farnham and Eliza and Maddie Mahoney. A private memorial service celebrating his life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Arundel Lodge, Edgewater, MD.