Born on December 28, 1984, Doug was a life-long resident of Ooltewah, Tennessee. He was a 2003 graduate of Ooltewah High School where he was a member of the wrestling team. After graduating, Doug joined the US Marine Corps, where he served from 2004 to 2009. He rose to the rank of corporal and was an F/A-18 fighter mechanic, having served in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Returning home, Doug married Pamela Manes, his joy and absolute love on May 28, 2011. He loved the Lord, was a totally devoted husband, a loving son, brother, doting uncle, loyal friend, and patriot.
Doug was larger than life. Ever the comedian, he kept his family in stitches. Doug was incredibly tender hearted, always stopping to help anyone in need. He never passed a homeless person without offering to give him a ride or buy him a meal. He always took the side of the underdog. Doug was fiercely loyal to his family, friends and country.
From the time he could walk, Doug loved the outdoors. He had an uncanny ability to find and catch a wide assortment of wildlife and loved owning exotic pets. He enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting or just standing around a bonfire with friends. He was adventure personified.
Doug was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Oran and Doris Bates, maternal grandfather, Jack Baker, father, Ron Cooper and infant sister, Shannon Cooper.
Survivors include his wife, Pamela Cooper, mother, Brenda Cooper, sisters, Amy (James) Creamer, Nikki Johnston and Ashely (Scott) Neal, six nephews and nieces, aunts, uncles and cousins.
The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 4:00 pm on Thursday, March 7, 2019 at Apison United Methodist Church, where he was a member. The funeral service will follow at 4:00 pm with Rev. Todd Chancey officiating. Interment with military honors will be at Plowman Cemetery following the service.
In Lieu of flowers please consider donating to the national coalition for homeless veterans at NCHV.org or 800-VET-HELP.
Please share your thoughts and memories at: www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com
Arrangements are made by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421.
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