Douglas J. Loeffler

He was born on May 14, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan, to Oscar C. and Miralda P. Loeffler. In 1935, the family relocated to Dunedin, Florida, where Doug spent his formative years. Fulfilling a longtime dream, he enrolled at Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville, Georgia, graduating in 1949. He was very proud of his time there and his accomplishments, and in 2019, he was thrilled to attend his 70th high school reunion with two other “Riverside Brothers” from his class.

In the fall of ‘49, he began his college education at the University of Florida, where he became a proud member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity (“Figi”).

On September 6, 1953, Doug married the love of his life, Patricia Bailey, beginning a marriage that would span 70 years. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Florida in June 1954 and went on to graduate from UF Law School in 1957. He began a distinguished legal career as a criminal defense attorney that would last more than 40 years.

Doug’s deep commitment to public service led him to be elected to the Florida House of Representatives, where he served from 1961 to 1963. In 1966, he was elected County Judge in Pinellas County, serving until 1970.

Throughout his life, Doug remained active in his community. He was a member of the Florida Bar Association, the Republican Party, Clearwater Kiwanis Club, Peace Memorial Presbyterian Church, and a dedicated volunteer for the Neighborly Senior Services Meals on Wheels program.

Above all, Doug’s greatest joy came from his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Patty, and his parents, Oscar and Miralda Loeffler.

Doug is survived by his children: Douglas J. Loeffler, Jr. (Kay), Pamela Loeffler Vierling (Dan), and Michael P. Loeffler (Karen); his grandchildren: Erin, Emily, Marina, Michael, Sarah, Jenny, Brian, and Rachel; and his great-grandchildren: Grace, Faith, Belle, Luke, Emma, Brooke, Tanner, Jace, Jackson, Addie, and Olivia.

A celebration of Doug’s life will be held at Sherwood Chapel and Memorial Gardens in Alcoa, Tennessee on July 19, 2025, at 11:00. Visitation will take place from 10:00 to 11:00.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Riverside Military Academy or Amedisys Hospice in his honor.