David Bernard Douglas, Jr.

David Bernard Douglas, Jr., also known as "Dave," "Big Dave," "DoubleD," and "Coach Douglas," devoted father, educator, mentor, and loving friend, passed away into the arms of his Savior on April 9, 2024 at the age of 41. Dave was born October 4, 1982 at Southwest Memorial Hospital in Houston, Texas.

As a boy, David played football at Inwood Dads Club in Houston, Texas. He spent many Saturdays on the field with his family and friends cheering him on–his parents from the stands and his sister from the sidelines. He went on to play for his middle and high school teams. During his time at Klein Forest High School, “Big Dave” also threw shot and discus for the track team and was awarded Offensive Line MVP before graduating in 2001.

David's parents were proud that he attended the University of Houston on a $70,000 football scholarship. He was touted as a skilled athlete who could play any position on the offensive line, but right guard was his home. He graduated with a degree in Communication and Media Studies in 2006 and stayed on as a Graduate Assistant Coach for UH Cougar Football until 2007. Off the field, "DoubleD" was known as a gentle giant. His calm demeanor, commanding presence, and generously cheerful nature were a strength and comfort to many.

In 2009, Mr. Douglas began his career at Cypress Ranch High School as a Special Education teacher and an offensive line and track coach and still maintains relationships with staff and students he met there. A move to Austin 2015 took him to Stony Point High School in Round Rock, Texas where he began as a Special Education Inclusion teacher and was soon promoted as a Social Studies teacher. Dave formed respectful relationships with students, trusting partnerships with parents, and kept in touch with the staff through the years. He returned to the Houston area in 2018 and taught Social Studies at Churchill Fulshear High School, resuming coaching football and track in 2019. He earned a Master of Education in Leadership degree from the University of North Texas in 2020. He moved out of coaching in 2021 when he unexpectedly became a single father to his three amazing children.

Dave loved God, his family, cooking, fishing, football, basketball, baseball, bonfires, and friendly banter. He fiercely protected his children and gave them a voice. He supported his students in the classroom, on the stage, on the field, and in their future endeavors.

At a profoundly difficult time in his life, Dave met Ida Marie in June 2021. They adored each other and were building a beautiful life after enduring much adversity. Together with Marie, Dave became a first-time land and homeowner in late 2023. He helped Marie clear the land, they brought a home onto the property, and then seamlessly blended their children into one big, joyful family. We cling to the knowledge that Dave had found love, realized his dream of owning a home, and built a happy family before his passing.

At the time of his passing, Mr. Douglas was a 9th grade History and World Geography teacher at Fulshear High School in Fulshear, Texas. He loved teaching and learning about the past and was thrilled to have Ida Marie join him in leading a group of students on a trip to Europe last summer. He was looking forward to doing the same in Japan in June 2024.

Dave is preceded in death by his grandparents: Elmarie Freeman, Lawrence Bailey, Sr., Mae Ella Harts, and Richard D. Douglas, Sr.

He is survived by his parents: David B. Douglas, Sr. and Suzette Ann Douglas; sons: Jace and Avery, his daughter: Aria; sister Tanisha (Douglas) DuBransky and brother-in-law, Marc DuBransky; nephews: Travis and Trevor DuBransky; the love of his life: Ida Marie and her children: Gisele, Natalya, and Jordanna, Jorge, and Alex; Ida Marie's parents: David Goslin and Martha Figley; aunts, uncles, cousins, students, teammates, and many, many friends.

Dave leaves a 6’3” hole in the hearts of those who called him dad, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, teacher, coach, teammate, and friend. His comforting smile and compassionate heart touched everyone who had the chance to know him.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you consider supporting David’s sister in establishing a trust for Jace, Avery, and Aria to access at age 25. Contributions can be made here: https://everloved.com/life-of/david-douglas/.

A celebration of life honoring Dave will be held at Calvary Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery on Saturday, April 20 at 10:00am. Visitation begins at 8:30am. A Bonfire in Dave's honor will take place in Conroe, Texas beginning at 5:00pm. Bring a lawn chair and we will eat, sit around the fire, and share Dave stories. Contact the family for the address.