Douglas Alden Caraway

Douglas Alden Caraway, aged 62, passed away on June 6, 2024, in Lancaster, CA. Born on September 27, 1961, in Kingsville, TX, Doug grew into a respected and beloved figure in his community, known for his dedication as a husband, father, grandfather, leader, veteran, author, and mentor. 

Doug's journey began with a road trip from south TX to AK with his parents and two sisters. He lived near Anchorage and then in Eagle River, AK, where he attended elementary and middle school. He enjoyed playing hockey and riding snow machines and survived the Good Friday earthquake in 1964. His family moved to OR just before he started high school. He graduated from Henley High School in Klamath Falls, OR, where he also played football. He continued his education at Oregon Institute of Technology, earning a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Management and played football. His academic career was distinguished by his military service; he enlisted in the US Army right out of high school, later attending college on the GI Bill, earning his commission as a US Army OYicer. Doug graduated top of his class from the Infantry OYicer Basic Course at Fort Benning, GA, and was recognized as an expert marksman. He went on to command the local Army National Guard unit in Klamath Falls, OR. 

Professionally, Doug excelled in management and leadership, starting his career at Jeld Wen in Washington and then Georgia. He later became a management consultant, working across the United States, England, Australia, and Mexico, and concluded his career at Lockheed Martin in a senior leadership role. His work ethic and leadership skills were an inspiration to many. He enjoyed mentoring and training leaders. 

In his personal life, Doug was passionate about his family and sports. He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather and mentor. Doug loved coaching youth football, soccer, and baseball, and was an avid fan of football at all levels. Golf was another favorite pastime, both watching and playing. Doug cherished his roles as a husband, father and grandpa. Above all, being a grandpa was his favorite and brought him great joy. 

Doug and Janet were members of Hope Chapel in Lancaster, CA. His faith was an integral part of his life, providing him with strength and guidance. Doug reconnected with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ some years back and it was his desire to share the Love of Christ so that no one would be left behind. 

Doug is survived by his wife of 38 years, Janet Caraway; children Andrew (Kirstin), Thomas (Jessica), and Matthew (Kylee) Caraway; grandchildren Penny, Samson, Christopher, and Gaines Caraway; sisters Donna Willette, Dianna (Dwayne Crabtree) Randolph, and brother, Darrel (Sandy) Caraway; along with two aunts and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents Perry and Martha Caraway, paternal grandparents Joseph and Naoma Caraway, maternal grandparents Lee Earl and Gladys Rambo, and uncle Halery Levert Caraway.

Services to honor Doug's life will be held on Friday, July 12, 2024, at Rosemont Baptist Church, 3794 Hamilton Road, LaGrange, GA 30241. Visitation will begin at 1 pm, followed by a Celebration of Life at 2 pm with an Honor Guard Presentation. Halley-Olsen-Murphy Funeral Home of Lancaster, CA, assisted with final arrangements. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Hope Chapel, 6015 W Ave. J-8, Lancaster, CA 93536, or online at https://hope4av.org/giving.html in memory of Douglas Alden Caraway.