Jim was a friend.  He was a military/Air National Guard friend colleague and often a quiet guidepost.  He served "The Guard" well and faithfully to the best of his ability.  He mentored many while striving to ensure the 117 MDS was always THE BEST.

Jim was a devoted husband and his world lit up when he met Joyce.  he loved her dearly.  I'm sure he was a loving father and grandfather.

Jim cared deeply about his military comrades and he and Joyce warmly hosted many Christmas gatherings, largely attended by 'the old farts', sometimes in costume (how about a Western Christmas!).  I will remember Jim, like other treasured and now deceased ANG colleagues, especially at Christmastime.

Rest in peace, Jim, and provide Joyce peace and comfort knowing she was well-loved.

Barbara Martin, LTC (retired)
Chief Nurse 117 MDS

Jim Sterrett

    As mentioned by Skip Rocket and Bill Cox, Jim was a member of the "Birmingham News gang" riding Hondas and Yamahas and terrorizing West End in our youthful days.
   Jim called me one fine day and asked...."Do you want to fly airplanes?" and he introduced me to the 117th TRW staff and 23 years later attended my retirement from the same unit.
     To say he will be missed is an understatement. Even though "we" may not have stayed close, I will always think of him as a brother!!!
     His family and loved ones are in our prayers.

One of my first friends in elementary school. Started paper routes together in the 8th grade, and got our first motorcycles not long afterwards. Graduated from West End High in 1968. So many good times and near disastrous misses growing up.

My deepest sympathy to the family and all who knew Jim.

Joyce sending my heartfelt condolences.  Chief Doak was an incredible person and will always be honored in our hearts.  May you fine peace in memories you all shared .  Praying for you and family.  God Bless.

Jim and Joyce at mine and Roseann’s wedding.

The chief opening a dirty Santa gift at his and Joyce’s annual Christmas celebration at their house.

One of our deployments to merry old England.

At the Norden’s lake house. Old Guard buddies having fun and telling old stories.

I went to high school with Jim.  My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

I will miss my Friend Jim. Praying for his family. 1968 WEHS class together and Birmingham News carriers together in the '60s.

On behalf of myself and my late father, Major General Leslie E. Whitehead, MD, I extend my sincerest condolences to Chief Doak's family for your loss. Jimmy was a great SNCO and an even better friend. May his memory be as a blessing to you as it is to me. Respectfully, MSGT Robert C. Whitehead.

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OBITUARY

Chief Master Sergeant, James Arthur Doak

March 10, 1950 – August 12, 2025

Ridout's Gardendale Chapel

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