Douglas M. Thackston

Douglas Marrice Thackston was born in Beeville, Texas, on February 1, 1937, to John Marrice and Agnus Thackston.

Douglas’s work ethic developed at a very young age, partly due to his dad’s death. While Working as a paper boy and in other jobs, Douglas helped support his family.

Douglas attended High school and college in Corpus Christi, Tx. Football was his favorite subject. The result of devotion to the game was a broken leg.

He Served in the Army / Texas National Guard and trained at Fort Hood in Gatesville, Tx.

After school, his career in food distribution covered several different companies. As White Swan’s Branch marketing and Merchandise manager, Douglas introduced the White Swan company to the Texas market.

Douglas was baptized at the church of Christ In Gatesville, Tx. Later, he served as a deacon and head of the benevolence committee.

Retirement Found Douglas and Joye traveling Europe, Jerusalem, China, and more,

Douglas is survived by Joye Thackston, his wife of 31 years, and three stepchildren, Kelly Bird Fannin, Kimberly Ross Dulak, and Kenneth Bird II. His Children from a former marriage are: Steven D. Thackston of Parkville, Maryland; John B. Thackston of Humble, Texas; Ronald R. Thackston of Dickinson, Tx.; Cathy L. Reed of Abilene, Tx.; Kelly E. Slovak of Kyle, Tx.; And Kimberly A. Simer of Edmond, OK. He is also survived by his Siblings, Lawrence Thackston of Skidmore, Texas and David Prather of Barksdale, Texas.

Douglas was preceded in death by his mother, Agnus V., and his stepson, Remington Bird.

After coaching Remington’s little league Baseball team for several years, Douglas became known around town as Coach Doug. He loved sports and retained sports statistics like a computer. 

Douglas’ love for the Texas bluebonnets compelled him to insist that a yard could not be mowed until the blossoms seeded out.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the new road Church of Christ in Waco, Texas. 

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 10, 2026 at Waco New Road Church of Christ with Charlie Thomason officiating as minister and Lowell Anderson as worship leader. Burial will follow at Davidson Cemetery in Gatesville. Visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at Pecan Grove Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be, John Thackston, Ronald Thackston, Taylor Ross, Tony Fannin, Mark Schmedthorst, Steve Bowles, Christopher Schubnell, Nicholas Slovak

Doug’s favorite bible verse:

Romans1:16 NAS