For many years Doug was my therapist, through divorces and the death of my brother, mother and son. He literally kept me on track in dealing with my idenity and the many losses. One time, he leaned forward and told me "Susan you have everyting you need inside you. Trust yourself." This one comment has stayed with me for 50 yers. I am forever greatful for Doug and his wisdom. He truly was a gift to me.

Dr. Draper was my psychology professor at Millsaps College in 1970. He was a wonderful person. I just found out that he passed away. He influenced my life and helped me tremendously when I became his patient for a few years. I called him once when I was back on a rare trip to Jackson. I am coming to a reunion of we students  from Millsaps who protested after the Jackson State shootings, to be held May 6th. I called his office to invite him and learned of his passing. I so wish I had called much earlier. He touched many people.

We are good friends with Dougs daughter Nikki and her family in Singapore. Doug must have been a great dad because his family here in Singapore really thought a lot of him. It seems his psych training paid off as he raised a daughter any mom and dad would be proud off. You have friends and family here in Singapore Vesta our hearts go out to you. Ron, Kate, Emily and Alex

Beth and I add our sympathies to Nicole and Mark and to Vesta and Doug's first wife Joan. Doug was one of my very best friends from our freshmen year in college, through Graduate school and our later lives in New Orleans and Jackson. He was a wonderful, optimistic and empathetic person with a huge sense of humor. I'll never forget his laugh. Doug was simply the best! Beth and I send our love and sympathies to his loved ones and we will speed him onto his heavenly journey with our prayers. He made a difference in the lives of many.
He will be missed.

May the God of comfort grant you the comfort needed at this difficult time.

Offering my deepest condolences during this difficult time, I'm so very sorry for your loss, death is something we are never prepared for, but please find comfort in knowing sickness, pain and death will one day be no more.

It is very difficult to say goodbye to my dear friend of 58 years. My sympathy is extended to all of Doug's family and friends who share this loss. I feel fortunate to be left with so many happy memories that will eventually replace my sorrow.  Thank you for being my buddy.

Doug has been a friend of the Morris Family since his teens.  We dearly love he and his wife Vesta and we wish her comfort during these sad times.

Mike & Marilyn Morris and all the North Carolina Morrises

I learned a wealth of knowledge from this man. Doug I quote you at least weekly and use what you taught me to help others. I enjoyed our last delightful visit in the waiting room of Jackson Oncology last year before Christmas. You were still teaching me then with great animation and hand gestures up until they called me back. I smile now remembering that picture! Vesta, goddess of the hearth. I know you are a special person and I have always wanted to meet you. Hopefully we can meet soon. God be with you closely at this time and walk you through each step of each day. Love in Christ, Deb

Rest in peace, Doug. Heaven is rejoicing with your homecoming. You were always a special friend and I will miss you. My thoughts & prayers are with your family.

My thoughts and prayers are with you all.  Dr. Draper was a delight to be around.  He will be greatly missed.
Tracey Curtis
Executive Director
Mississippi Psychological Association

My thoughts goes out to the Draper family.  Doug and Vesta were the most fun loving, caring couple I have ever met. 
Vesta, wish there were words to help you thru this, just know we all love and care for you.

Doug touched my life in a significant way. I will miss his friendship and the moments along life's path we shared. My thoughts will be with the family today.

Rest in peace, Doug...you certainly provided enough to so many that it is a just reward. I pray your family embraces your homecoming and lets God's loving arms wrap tightly around them during this time of sorrow.

I can never adequately express what Doug Draper has meant to my family.  Our lives would not have been the same without his wisdom, his counsel, and his friendship.  He taught me so much!

OBITUARY

Douglas Osteen Draper

August 16, 1939 – April 1, 2013

Parkway Funeral Home & Parkway Memorial Cemetery

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