Douglas Neil Johnson M.D.

A lifelong learner and dedicated public servant, Doug’s early path took him from high school into the United States Marine Corps, where he served as a radio operator. He later used the GI Bill to attend Oklahoma State University, beginning in engineering before transferring to the University of Oklahoma to complete his undergraduate studies. He earned his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine and completed his residency in psychiatry at the University of Iowa.

Doug began his professional career in private psychiatric practice before joining the United States Air Force, where he trained as a flight surgeon and rose to the rank of Colonel. He served in various leadership roles, including hospital commander, and was proud of his contributions to military medicine. After retiring from the Air Force, he continued his service to others by working for many years as a psychiatrist with the State of Texas.

Outside of medicine, Doug found deep satisfaction in tending to his land—planting trees, clearing brush, and shaping his “gentleman’s acreage” in Alto, TX. But his truest passion was for reading and learning. A voracious reader with wide-ranging interests, he devoured medical journals, scientific literature, history and other non-fiction, and well-crafted mystery and action novels.

Doug is survived by his sons Doug Jr. (Molly) and Everett; his daughters Heather and Karen Anne; and his grandchildren Ellen, Daniel, Eve, Sadie, Ava, Austin, Wyatt, and Jonathan; his brother Richard Johnson; and his sister Sandra Stokes. His quiet curiosity, intellectual spirit, wry sense of humor, and deep love of family will be dearly missed.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of The Guardian and Brighton Bridge Hospice, both of Lake Charles, Louisiana, for their compassionate care and support in his final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to consider a donation to the Arbor Day Foundation, Brighton Bridge Hospice, or to your local nonprofit hospice organization, in honor of his love for nature and the compassionate care he received.