Matthew Henry Douglas

On April 17, 1931, Matthew Douglas was born to the proud parents Rev. Ned Douglas and Ruby Douglas in Montgomery, Louisiana. During his early childhood, Matthew accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior. He fellowshipped at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in Montgomery, Louisiana. His childhood education began at John Wesley Gaines High School, where he graduated in 1948 as part of the school’s first graduating class.

After graduating from high school, Matthew joined the United States Air Force and honorably served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Upon returning home, he enrolled in Park College while stationed at Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base in Kansas City, Missouri. In 1976, he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Business Management, and a few years later, he completed Master Degrees in Business Management and Communication. A true American hero, Matthew dedicated his life to service, proudly serving his country for 26 years in the United States Air Force. Matthew was awarded the Bronse Star for excellence. He was instrumental ending discrimination concerning promoption of African American servicesman.

His bravery, resilience, and leadership were the cornerstones of his military career. After retiring, Matthew remained a man of integrity and kindness in his civilian life.

He was a beloved son, brother, uncle, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He will always be remembered for his kind heart, sharp wit, generous spirit, and love of storytelling.

Matthew was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. Ned Douglas and Ruby Douglas; his daughter, Julie Douglas; his brothers, Zeblin Douglas, Frank Douglas, Sherman Douglas, and Richard Douglas; and his sisters, Louise McCain, Naomi Walker, Zettie Walker, and Josephine Freeman.

He is survived by his sister Dorothy Gilbert; and wife Elizabeth Douglas; his sons, Christopher and Linda Douglas, Russell and Gina Douglas, Terry; his daughter, Valerie & Gary Sweet, and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.

His legacy of love, sacrifice, and courage lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.