Douglas Mcpherson

Douglas McPherson, age 68, son of Noble Burton McPherson and Norma Fay Strickland McPherson, was born October 30, 1945 in San Diego, California and departed this earthly life on February 26, 2014 in Columbia, Tennessee. He was a 1963 graduate of Eastern High School in Lansing, Michigan and a 1973 graduate of Michigan State University, earning a bachelor degree in Business and Pre-Law.

Douglas was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, enlisting in 1965 and honorably discharged in 1971. His earliest employment included time in manufacturing jobs in Michigan and a stint as a lineman with Pacific Gas and Electric in the San Joaquin Valley in California. He eventually entered the field of real estate, earning both sales and broker licenses. This field of employment began as an Investment Analyst with Auto Owners Insurance and transitioned to self-employment in real estate sales and property management. In his later
years, Douglas developed a focus on writing, becoming a published author both online and in print.

Douglas enjoyed many hobbies and activities. He became a talented pool player at an early age, was a formidable chess player, and enjoyed tennis into his senior years. He was a proud member of the Sons of Confederate Veterans, Maj. Gen. William D. McCain Camp No. 584, and especially enjoyed participating in Civil War reenactments as a member of 1st Tennessee Infantry Company C. Until health issues arose, he was an active social dancer, enjoying almost weekly dancing with his very special and loved friend, Sherron Scott.

Douglas served on the Board of Directors and chaired the Legal Committee of the Children’s Rights Council, Michigan Chapter (1995-1997). He was also a licensed contractor and builder, focusing on barrier free modifications and handicapper ramps.

Preceding him in death were his beloved parents. He is survived and will be greatly missed by his sister, Colleen (Dennis) Farrell of Columbia, Tennessee and nieces and nephews Elizabeth Farrell, Jeremiah (Brandy) Farrell, Christopher Farrell, and great-nephews Caleb Ryan Patterson and Luke Noble Farrell, all of Columbia, Tennessee. The great tragedy and sadness of his life was the loss of his children, Rachel Elizabeth McPherson and Patrick Douglas McPherson, in their childhood.

Douglas was blessed to have two life-long friendships, each friend as close as a brother. Since junior high school he remained in regular contact, sharing life for over 50 years with Gary McIntyre of Mecosta, Michigan and Thayer “Butch” Lillie of New River, Arizona.

Doug was a Christian man whose desire in recent years was to grow in righteousness. His baptism meant so much to him that the certificate was framed and hung in his living room as a continual reminder of his decision to serve the Lord.

Visitation with family will be Sunday, March 2, 2014 from 4-6PM at Williams Funeral Home in Columbia. A memorial service will be held at 1PM on Monday, March 3, 2014 at the funeral home, officiated by Pastor Mark Lindstrom, with military honors provided by American Legion Herbert Griffin Post 19. Pallbearers will be members of the Men’s Prayer Group of Grace Church of the Nazarene, with graveside services and interment at Polk Memorial Gardens, Columbia, Tennessee. For more information contact www.williamsfh.com .

In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes can be sent in Douglas’ name to the Care and Share Ministry, Grace Church of the Nazarene, 2302 Highland Avenue, Columbia, Tennessee 38401.