.jpg)
Wlaf1450Bishop Donald Ray (Donnie) Douglas passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 15, 2024, at Methodist Medical Center, Oak Ridge with family by his side. Donnie was born in Jellico TN, January 30, 1943, and was the son of late Howard and Marie Douglas of Lake City TN.
He is predeceased by his wife of 58 years, Margaret Jane (Janie) Douglas of Rocky Top, TN.
Donnie wore many hats during his life and among those were a coal miner for many years and from there he began working at K-25 in Oak Ridge where he retired. Although he held fulltime employment, his true call of service was for the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. Donnie attained the level of Bishop in the Church of God, Cleveland Tennessee. He was the kind of person who always had a smile and a good word to say. Never boastful or full of pride, he was a good shepherd to all he met. Being in the ministry of the Gospel over 55 years, he inspired the lives of many people.
One story of recollection is an elderly woman in his church wanted to be baptized but she had no way to travel, so a kiddie pool was used in the home’s backyard. Being dignified wasn’t the rule, it was serving his flock in their time of need and a way was made. He spoke of this event throughout his life, it was a simple thing but it required a humble spirit and a heart of compassion. This was him being a good shepherd, this was his ministry. Donnie and his wife Janie pastored the Brewstertown Church of God for over 25 years, then Jellico Highway Church of God. Ever the ear to listen and using the Word as a guide to instruct, he was again a good shepherd to his flock. Listing the things Donnie and Janie did for people, known and unknown, would take more than this writ could hold. He would never want to seem boastful in any regard. He would say “The Lord has made a way”. Spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ was his calling, a true spiritual leader and mentor.
Donnie and his wife Janie experienced tragedy on September 7, 2020 as the love of his life was taken, he endured years of recovery. This experience did change him in many ways, but it opened new doors to reach people and to show life continues regardless of your circumstances. The Lord makes a way even when you can’t see it. Donnie never lost his joy and never doubted his faith; his God was greater than any event or problem.
His ministry will live on past his mortal body. Seeds of truth never die, they grow and bloom. So, as you read this small account of one life, remember, we never truly know who we affect in this journey. Make that interaction one of kindness and love, and above all encourage a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Donnie’s labor is over, his work is done. Treasure he had laid up in heaven are now his but above all, his Lord and Savior greeted him with nail scarred hands, who then pointed, his sweetheart awaited.
He is survived by sons, Donald Eric Douglas and fiancé Vicki Seiber of Lafollette TN and David Mark Douglas and his wife Stacy Douglas of Powell TN.
Grandchildren, Taylor Gayle Douglas, Davanna and Jeff Foust, Darby Kate Douglas, Audriana Abbott, Diva Janeway, Chandler Abbott, Parker & Jenna Douglas.
Great-grandchildren, Ariel & Jackson Foust, Addilyn Abbott, Josie Abbott.
A visitation service will be held at Leach Family Funeral Home in Caryville TN, October 20th at 2:00 pm followed by a procession to Oak Grove cemetery beginning at 3 pm. Reverend Lonnie Lyke will be officiating the gravesite service.
A special thanks to Debbie Gibson and her husband Robert for all the care and love.
In lieu of flowers, do an unexpected and unsolicited act of kindness for someone in need and in Jesus’s name.