Douglas Guy King

Doug King was born on August 4, 1971, in Kansas City, Missouri, to James and Janet King. He graduated from Baker University in 1994, where he was a proud member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity and played four years of football. Soon after, Doug answered his calling to serve by attending the Police Academy, graduating in 1996.

Doug dedicated 25 years to the Kansas City Police Department, retiring in 2021. During his distinguished career, he served as a member of the Community Action Network (C.A.N.), SWAT, and Mounted Patrol, earning numerous accolades along the way. He took great pride in his work and in serving his community with strength, integrity, and compassion.

Doug loved his family deeply, and he made sure they knew it. He was known for his generous heart, always ready to lend a helping hand or offer encouragement. His warmth and sense of humor could light up any room, and his loyalty to those he loved was steadfast. Doug truly never met a stranger. People were naturally drawn to him, and he built lasting relationships wherever he went. When someone doubted him, Doug would just smile and say, “hide and watch,” and more often than not, he proved exactly what he meant.

In early 2025, Doug found faith in Christ and was baptized at Church of the Four Corners, a moment that held deep meaning in his life. He had a love for the outdoors and looked forward each year to his hunting and fishing trips. He also enjoyed spending time with his beloved dogs, browsing swap meets, and taking vacations whenever he could.

Of all the roles he held, being “Papaw” was one of Doug’s greatest joys. He adored his granddaughters and treasured every moment with them, whether he was making them laugh, sneaking them a treat, or simply sitting close and soaking in their presence. They brought out a special kind of light in him, and the memories they created together will be cherished forever.

A devoted Kansas City Chiefs fan, Doug rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his team. He was deeply proud of his career as a police officer, but even more proud of the family he loved and the life he built with them.

Doug is preceded in death by his parents, James and Janet King; his paternal grandparents, George and Virginia King; and his maternal grandparents, Raymond and Thelma Douglas of Harrisonville. He is now reunited with them in eternity.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Vanessa King; his daughters, Madison Dale (Gordon) of Kansas City, Kansas, and Shelby Dale of Lee’s Summit, Missouri; and his cherished granddaughters, Amoriana (7), Ariella (4), and Avaeh (3). He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Belva “Bobbi” Boykin of Kansas City, Missouri; his sister-in-law, Jennifer Hoogendoorn of Lawrence, Kansas; his sisters, Kristie Hunt of Independence, Missouri, Kelly King of Kansas City, Missouri, and Jamie Gargotta (Tony) of Lee’s Summit, Missouri; his brothers, Randy King (Kim) of Raymore, Missouri, and his twin brother, Darren King (Julia) of Kansas City, Missouri; along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Doug’s legacy of love, service, and kindness will live on in all who knew him.