Doug was born on May 30, 1937, the only child to Julia Jones Vass and Frank Raymond Vass. He grew up in Wrightsville Beach, NC, attending New Hanover High School and Prep School at Presbyterian Junior College. He proudly served six years in the United States Army Reserves and had a long, storied career in the insurance industry.
Doug was a longtime member of Little Chapel on the Boardwalk at Wrightsville Beach. He served in numerous leadership capacities, including a deacon of the church. Additionally, he was a member of the Wrightsville Beach Lions Club and a founding member of the Coastal Carolina Cruisers. In his spare time, he enjoyed boating, RV camping, golfing, playing cards and attending family activities. To Doug, family was not only important, it was everything. His entire world revolved around his children and grandchildren, and he measured his own happiness by their well-being. He never missed a game, milestone or a quiet moment of need. The greatest legacy he leaves behind is his large, tightly knit family.
Doug is survived by his wife of 67 years, Patricia Robbins Vass, of Wilmington, NC; his five children, Doug Vass (Curtis) of Wilmington, NC, Pam Vass Ellenberg (Walt) of Thurmont, MD, Jimmy Vass (Melinda) of Wilmington, NC, Brad Vass (Christa) of Wilmington, NC, Sue Laackmann (Tom) of Wilmington, NC, and his beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren.
The family is especially grateful for the compassionate and dedicated care provided by his caregivers.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Little Chapel on the Boardwalk at Wrightsville Beach.https://littlechapel.org/secure-online-giving
A Visitation will be held at Coble Funeral and Cremation Service at Greenlawn Memorial Park, Chapel, 1155 Shipyard Blvd., Wilmington, NC 28412, on Thursday, August 20, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
A Memorial Service will be held at Little Chapel on the Boardwalk, 2 W Fayettville St., Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480, on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 11:00 am.
Graveside Inurnment will be held at Oleander Memorial Gardens, 306 Bradley Dr., Wilmington, NC 28409, on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 10:30 am.
