Douglas Gene Earle

Shelby Douglas Gene Earl, fondly known as Doug, peacefully passed away on March 28, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on October 5, 1938, in the Chick Springs area of Taylors, South Carolina, Doug lived a life marked by simplicity, a strong work ethic, creative ingenuity, and a deep love for the land.

For over eighty years, Doug worked on the family farm—first alongside his parents in his youth, and later as its devoted owner and caretaker. Known for his dedication and reliability, he also built a long and respected career as a maintenance supervisor at PPG Industries. His skill and leadership earned him the respect of colleagues over more than thirty years.

Beyond his professional life, Doug was a man of many talents and interests. He had a passion for gardening, growing both food and flowers, and a gift for building and craftsmanship. With his own hands, he constructed homes and treehouses and designed an irrigation system using a natural spring to nourish his gardens. He was also skilled in electrical work and found joy in traditional canning alongside his wife of 36 years. Doug had a special love for dogs, especially his loyal companion, Bleu, who remained faithfully by his side in his final days.

Doug’s faith was most often expressed through quiet, behind-the-scenes service. He was a member of New Hope Baptist Church in his early years and later joined Christopher Road Baptist Church, where he faithfully maintained the church and its grounds for over 15 years. In 2016, he was ordained as a deacon, and in 2017, he received recognition for his dedicated service to the church. As a professed believer in Jesus Christ, Douglas embraced many opportunities to show love and support for his church.

Douglas was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Mike Douglas and Millie Sepaugh Earl; his devoted wife, Sandra; his sister, Peggy Joyce; his son-in-law, Tim Bridges; as well as many dear friends and extended family members. He is survived by three children--Donna Earl Bridges; Vance Earl and wife Susan; and Carmen Faries. Doug leaves behind a cherished legacy in his grandchildren—Chrysalis, Paige, Evan, and Lucas—and his great-grandchildren, Jameson, Tyler, and Wren. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Johnnie Martin and husband Jeep as well as many nephews and neices.

A service to remember Doug will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. in the sanctuary of New Hope Baptist Church, with burial to follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the church’s Hope Center, where all are welcome to share memories and honor Doug’s life of hard work, faith, and quiet resilience.

Funeral and burial services have been entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home in Shelby, NC.