Remembering Lee Walburn, Atlanta magazine's Longest-Serving Editor-in-Chief

The legendary editor transformed the publication into a literary force and nurtured some of the South's greatest writers.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:11pm

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An impressionistic, out-of-focus photograph composed of soft, glowing pools of warm color and light, capturing the intimate, inspirational atmosphere of a writer's retreat or editorial meeting.The vibrant, creative energy that defined Lee Walburn's tenure as Atlanta magazine's editor-in-chief lives on through the writers and editors he nurtured.Atlanta Today

Lee Walburn, who served as editor-in-chief of Atlanta magazine for 15 years, passed away at the age of 89 after a long illness. Walburn was known for his editorial vision, keen eye for talent, and ability to bring out the best in writers. Under his leadership, the magazine received over 200 journalism awards and published the work of acclaimed authors like Pat Conroy, Lewis Grizzard, and Susan Faludi.

Why it matters

Walburn's tenure at Atlanta magazine cemented its reputation as a literary powerhouse that championed Southern voices. His passing marks the end of an era for the publication and the Atlanta media landscape, as he was instrumental in shaping the city's cultural identity through his work.

The details

Walburn joined Atlanta magazine as editor-in-chief in 1987 and transformed it from a sleepy city magazine into a nationally recognized publication. He had a knack for spotting and nurturing writing talent, pushing authors to produce their best work. Walburn was also fiercely protective of the magazine's editorial integrity, once famously telling an executive who was asking too many personal questions, 'I've got enough kiss-my-ass money set aside that I don't have to take any more of your questions.'

  • Walburn became editor-in-chief of Atlanta magazine in 1987.
  • Walburn passed away on April 9, 2026 at the age of 89.
  • A memorial service will be held on May 9, 2026 in Rome, Georgia.

The players

Lee Walburn

The longest-serving editor-in-chief of Atlanta magazine, known for his editorial vision, talent for nurturing writers, and fierce protection of the publication's integrity.

Jim Townsend

The founding editor-in-chief of Atlanta magazine, considered the 'father' of the publication.

Terry Kay

A writer whose idea for a story about his father and a white dog that showed up after his mother's death turned into a bestselling book and an Emmy Award-winning film, thanks to Walburn's encouragement.

Scott Freeman

A former freelance writer, senior editor, and executive editor at Atlanta magazine who worked under Walburn's leadership.

Jackie Walburn

Lee Walburn's beloved wife, who survives him along with their three children: Shannon, Steve, and David.

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What they’re saying

“'Make 'em laugh, make 'em cry, make 'em smarter.'”

— Lee Walburn, Editor-in-Chief, Atlanta magazine

“'It's a good story, but you buried the lede.'”

— Lee Walburn, Editor-in-Chief, Atlanta magazine

“'Just because it's interesting doesn't mean it's part of the story you're telling.'”

— Lee Walburn, Editor-in-Chief, Atlanta magazine

“'The Bill Campbell piece is so good I will be devastated if it is not a finalist for a National Magazine Award. It is so good that I am pleading with [our copy editor] not to have you shot for being so f***ing late with it. Worthy of The New Yorker in my opinion.'”

— Lee Walburn, Editor-in-Chief, Atlanta magazine

What’s next

A memorial service for Lee Walburn will be held on May 9, 2026 at the Pleasant Valley North Baptist Church in Rome, Georgia.

The takeaway

Lee Walburn's legacy lives on through the writers and editors he nurtured and the indelible mark he left on Atlanta magazine. His commitment to editorial excellence, talent discovery, and championing of Southern voices cemented the publication's reputation as a literary force to be reckoned with.