Douglas Wilson Coulter Jr.

Douglas Wilson Coulter Jr., a devoted husband, father, and friend, passed away on August 25, 2024, in Athens, Georgia, after a long illness. Born in Knoxville, Tennessee, on November 11, 1950, Douglas lived a life rich in knowledge, adventure, and love.

A man of deep intellectual curiosity, Douglas pursued his love of learning throughout his life. He earned a geology degree from the University of Georgia, where he met Dona, his lifelong partner. He later furthered his formal education by obtaining an MBA from the University of Tennessee.

While his career was in food distribution, his true passion was geology. This passion and his adventurous spirit took him far and wide—traveling across Southern Africa, Europe, the Caribbean, and even to Afghanistan. In particular, he held a special place in his heart for the people, geology, and wildlife of Namibia. His friendships spanned the globe, and it gave him great joy to keep in touch with them.

In addition to his professional and academic pursuits, Douglas had a deep love for history and science. He was a voracious reader, always seeking to expand his understanding of the world. At times, loved ones would find that he had mailed them a particularly sage quote, enclosed in a card inscribed with his personal maxim: “Peace * Love * Wisdom.”

Douglas is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Dona Coulter; and their two children: Julia Coulter and Douglas Coulter III. His family was his greatest joy, and his legacy will live on in their hearts. Douglas will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his memory will be forever cherished.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to the Love Kitchen in Knoxville, TN.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.