Gary Barry Douglas

Gary B. Douglas, age 72, a devoted family man and respected professional, completed his earthly journey and ascended to heaven to be with Jesus, his Lord and Savior on November 18, 2023. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and community service that will forever be cherished by those who knew him.

Born on December 1, 1950, in Memphis, TN, Gary was raised with the values of love and hard work that shaped his character throughout his life. A proud alumnus of Messick High School, he furthered his education at Memphis State, earning a degree in accounting and a JD from Memphis State Law School. His academic achievements laid the foundation for a successful career, culminating in his role as President of Boyle Trust and Investment, where he recently celebrated 26 years of service with Boyle.

Gary’s life was a testament to his diverse passions and interests. A devout member of Grace Evangelical Church, his commitment to faith was unwavering. He was also an avid collector, finding joy in amassing trains, stamps, coins, books, and airplane model kits. His profound interest in history, particularly the Civil War and World War II, was evident through his membership in the Sons of Confederate Veterans and Bankhead’s Battery, where he actively participated in historical reenactments.

Beyond his professional and personal pursuits, Gary was deeply committed to community service, serving on the Salvation Army Board and cherishing the tradition of ringing the Salvation Army bell during Christmas.

Family was the cornerstone of Gary’s life. His love and pride for his daughters, Meredith and Elizabeth, were evident in all he did. A dedicated band parent, he relished every game and concert, with band trips to Disney among his most cherished memories. He took his job of being in charge of the concession stand seriously. Opening up three hours before each game to ensure that everything was ready to go at game time.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Jan Huston Douglas; daughters Meredith and Elizabeth; brother Maurice Douglas and wife Frances; sister Clarice Kiser and husband Marty; mother-in-law Norma Huston; sisters-in-law Cyndy Taylor, Carrie Likley, husband Steve, and Julie Graham, husband Mark; as well as his beloved nieces, nephews; best friend Robert Waller, who was like a brother; and his cherished walking fur-buddies Riley, Rosie, and Maggie. He was predeceased in death by his parents Maurice and Hazel Smith Douglas, brother Michael Douglas, niece Kimberly Kiser, and father-in-law Dr. Richard Huston.

The viewing will be held at 1:30 pm on Saturday, November 25, 2023, at Waller Funeral Home in Oxford, Mississippi, with the procession departing at 2:15 to Harmontown Baptist Cemetery in Harmontown, Mississippi. The burial service will commence at 3:00 pm to celebrate Gary’s life. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 26, 2023, at Grace Evangelical Church in Germantown, TN with visitation beginning at 2:00 pm and the memorial service at 3:00 pm. Following the service, everyone is invited to the Douglas’ home to continue Gary’s Celebration of Life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the Salvation Army Memphis, 696 Jackson Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38105, the Missions programs at Grace Evangelical Church, 9750 Wolf River Boulevard, Germantown, TN 38139, or a charity of your choice.