Claude Preston Douglass

Claude Preston Douglass, age 90, husband of Emily Joyce Davis Douglass and lifelong resident of Somerville, Tennessee, passed away on June 26, 2026. Mr. Douglass was born on October 13, 1935, in Somerville, TN.

Preston was the son of Charlie Claude "C.C." and Etha Lillian Clark Douglass. He was a proud graduate of Fayette County High School, class of 1953. On December 21, 1956, he married Emily Joyce Davis Douglass, with whom he shared a devoted life and raised their family in Somerville, Tennessee. Lovingly known as "Pawpaw", he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His faith, family and community were central to his life, and his memory will forever be treasured by those who knew him.

Preston was known as a steady, hardworking presence—someone who showed up, served faithfully, and poured himself into others. He worked as a rural letter carrier for the United States Postal Service and owned and operated Douglass Department Store, both roles reflecting his reliability and care for his community. He also devoted more than twenty‑two years to coaching Dixie Youth Baseball, guiding young players with patience and integrity. His love of teaching continued with his grandchildren and great‑grandchildren, sharing all sports, especially golf and all other activities they enjoyed. He never missed a chance to cheer them on—always watching with pride and joy. 

A lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Somerville, Preston served faithfully as a deacon for 62 years. He became a beloved presence in the church, known for his legendary Sunday morning greetings and his heartfelt habit of welcoming newcomers with genuine warmth. Outside the church, Preston cherished his time with the Ice House Card Group, gathering regularly with friends for cards, laughter, and fellowship.

Pawpaw leaves behind his loving wife of 69 years, Emily Joyce Davis Douglass; his daughter, Cindy Cocke and Hamblette, two sons, Randy Douglass and Lisa, and Jack Douglass and Melissa, all of Somerville, TN. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren: Daniel Cocke and Annie of Mason, TN, Catherine O’Donohue and Tom of Knoxville, TN, Davis Cocke and Lauren of Somerville, TN, Abby Odom and Will of Somerville, TN, Julie Anne Holt and David of Salt Lake City, UT, Blake Douglass and Mary Katherine of Union City, TN, and Chad Douglass of Somerville, TN. Pawpaw's legacy continues in his nine great-grandchildren: Maggie Odom of Somerville, TN, Cad and Caury Cocke of Mason, TN, Crawford, Graham and Adeline Holt of Salt Lake City, UT, Max and Allie O’Donohue of Knoxville, TN, and Preston Douglass of Union City, TN. He is also survived by his two brothers, Wallace Douglass from Atoka, TN and Charlie Douglass from Maryville, TN.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Willie B. Douglass, his sisters, Dorothy Linderman and Joy Green and his beloved grandson, Alex Douglass.

Preston’s life was characterized by quiet leadership, steadfast faith, and unwavering devotion to family and community. Pawpaw will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

Services for Mr. Douglass will be officiated by Bro. Stan Smith at 3:00 Wednesday afternoon July 1, 2026 at First Baptist Church of Somerville. Burial will follow in the Mt. Olive Cemetery in the District 15 community. A visitation for Mr. Douglass will be from 2:00-3:00 Wednesday afternoon at the church.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Daniel Cocke, Davis Cocke, Blake Douglass, Chad Douglass, Will Odom and Tom O'Donohue. Honorary pallbearers are David Kelly, Melvin German and The Ice House card group- Edd Denniston, Earl Dowdy, Carl McCaskill, Randy Walk and Bob Taber.

The family requests memorials be directed to First Baptist Church of Somerville, 12685 Main Street, Somerville, TN 38068 or the Mt. Olive Cemetery, 514 Oak Street, Somerville, TN 38068.