Douglas Stafford Jr., age 63, of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, entered Heaven on April 17, 2026. Doug, as he was known by his loved ones, was born on December 2nd, 1962, and was the eldest child of Don (Douglas) and Mary Stafford. Doug passed away at Mission Hospital surrounded by family following injuries sustained by a dirt bike accident. Doug was happiest in the woods, especially on his dirt bike. 

Though he did not know that ride was his last, it was the kind of moment he would want his life to be defined by- doing what he loved most on this Earth. Yet above all, Doug lived by the greatest love: the love of God. He lived his life by the central aspect, ‘God is love’ (1 John 4:8). His faith led him to live a life of conviction, compassion, and the desire for more than the things of this world. He dedicated himself to the study of the Holy Bible, especially in his later years, and what he learned guided the way he lived and the man he was. Doug also loved to laugh and poke fun when the opportunity arose. He was always ready for an outdoor adventure, spending most of his life in the woods, on the water, or on the ball field. Doug was the family’s personal encyclopedia, a reference for anything from physics to sports. Most importantly, he was a man who cared deeply for his family and those in need. Left to cherish his memory are his son, Douglas Stafford III; daughter, Shaylee Hoilman (Kaleb); grandsons, Jess and Jonah Hoilman; sister, Donna Stafford; brothers, John Stafford, Tom Stafford (Michelle); and Josh Wells (Keeley), who held a special place in his life as a son and brother.

A funeral service to honor Doug's memory will be held on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 6:30 PM at Ledger Baptist Church, with Reverend Don Stafford officiating, as well as Danny Stafford and John Stafford. The family will welcome friends beginning at 5:30 PM. A private graveside service will be held Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at Ledger Baptist Church Cemetery.

Henline - Hughes Funeral Service is honored to be assisting the Stafford family.