Douglas James
1937—2023
Douglas James, 85, of Hudson, Florida, passed away Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023.
He was born one of six siblings Oct. 15, 1937, in Inez, Kentucky, to the late Sherman & Hazel [Palmer] James.
Douglas was a United States Naval veteran from 1957-1963, which included two years of reserve duty.
During his four years of active duty, he was a machinist’s mate on two USN destroyer tenders. After his military service time had concluded, he was a machinist for H&R Manufacturing Company for a few years before landing a job as a truck driver. He began his trucking career with Ryder Truck Lines and then with Conway Central Express. He retired in 2003 with 35 years in the trucking industry.
Douglas was an avid golfer and member of the [HAGA] Hungarian American Golf Association. He enjoyed his time on the links with all his other members and friends. He always looked forward to his yearly trips to Myrtle Beach and loved playing all the best golf courses South Carolina had to offer.
When Douglas was feeling “special sporty,” he would don an outfit of his idol from the PGA Tour, none other than the late Payne Stewart. From the knee-high socks, knickers, and cap, he really captured the whole look and loved all the attention it brought from his golf buddies.
He was also an avid animal lover and always supported the local SPCA.
He was a loving husband, father, grandfather (papa), son, brother, uncle, and friend, who will be greatly missed by many, including his two grand puppies (Milton and Bo) and six grand kitties (Alley, Chevy, Amun, Titan, Willow and Tux).
Douglas is survived by his sons Robert (Cindi) and Paul (Mindy), along with grandson Gabriel Mark Z. James and brother Bobby Dean (Lois) James.
Douglas is preceded in death by his devoted, loving wife of 56 years, Dolores; his parents, Sherman and Hazel; his brothers, Harold and Howard; his sisters, Delma Hogue and Eulah Bucar; and his BFF and golfing partner, Joseph Rahon.
Douglas and Dolores will be laid to rest together at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida.
Family suggests any donations be made to any SPCA facility.