Douglas Winston

THE MAN On Saturday, October 24, 2020, in the comfort of his home, God sent one of his angels to bring Douglas home. Doug, as he was most commonly referred to as, was born to the late Amos Scott and Nellie Winston in West Point, Georgia on August 12, 1936. The eldest of eight children, Doug accepted Christ at an early age and was a proud member of Bethlehem Baptist Church in West Point. He received his formal education in West Point and graduated from 10th Street High School in May of 1955. Doug was a loving son, always dedicated to his mother and his Aunt Sis (Ollie) until their passing. He took the role of eldest sibling seriously and was considered the protector of his family. Without hesitation, Doug was known to help with any problem – big or small. For him it was never an obligation; it was a strong sense of duty to help his family. It was this sense of duty that started his incredible work ethnic at an early age. He was only 8 years old when he started his first job, using his small wheelbarrow to move bricks. He earned only a few cents per load, but it helped contribute to the household. Doug always placed a high value on family, sharing a special relationship with each of his siblings and extended family. Seeking more opportunities, he moved to Detroit, MI in 1955. After working several jobs, he started a career with General Motors as an assembly worker in 1958. While working at GM, he also began a custodial night job at Wayne State University. He worked both jobs for well over 30 years, rarely ever missing a day. Doug was revered and highly respected by his many coworkers. In August of 1960, Doug was drafted into the United States Army and his tour of duty included time in Germany and Amsterdam. Anytime he’d tell one of his many stories, he loved to work in one or two of his favorite German phrases that he learned in his travels. After completing his tour and participating in the Reserves, he was honorably discharged in 1966. Doug met and married the love of his life, Dorothy Johnson on June 25, 1966 in Detroit, Michigan. Douglas and Dorothy were dedicated to each other for over 43 years until Dorothy’s passing in 2010. Being a father was one of his greatest roles in life. He was an amazing Dad to a dutiful son, Darryl, and deeply cherished by his loving daughters, Monica and DeAnna, from his union with Dorothy. Doug had a special relationship with his grandchildren, Marie, Brandon, Sydney and Jordyn. “Papa,” as he was fondly known, never hesitated to give unconditional love and support to his grandchildren. He was the biggest cheerleader and loudest fan at every school program, promotional ceremony and basketball/volleyball game the grandkids participated in. THE MYTH Doug was a loyal and true friend who always treated his friends like family. Building and sustaining bonds within his friendships was a true priority for him. He never met a stranger and would sit and talk to someone he just met for hours. No one was beneath him. He looked everyone in their eye and gave them the respect that he knew they deserved. As his friend, if you needed him, his home was always open and if you extended an invitation, his calendar was always free. Doug lived a full life and loved to share his wisdom and experiences with everyone. He LOVED to talk and tell stories. These stories were always full of expression and usually included him acting out scenes and doing voice impressions. In short, Doug could definitely hold court with the best of them. His memory was long and the details NEVER changed. If you were fortunate enough to spend time around him, you more than likely heard some of the same stories numerous times!!! THE LEGEND Doug was many things to many people and everyone had a special story about who he was, his acts of kindness or what he meant to them. If he cared for you, there wasn’t a thing he wouldn’t do for you. While at a family funeral in Chicago in 1975, Doug, along with his brother Rick and cousin Ralph (Gayson), discussed how important it was for the family to come together for more than weddings and funerals. That day the three of them made a pact to have regular family reunions, a tradition that has continued to this day. He made everyone feel as if they held a special place in his heart. He loved to reminisce, discuss family history and share stories of his many adventures. Doug’s life had meaning and his memory will always live on because he left an impact on the hearts of his family and many friends. He will truly be missed, today and always. Douglas leaves to cherish his loving memory, son Darryl Collins; daughters, Monica Winston and DeAnna Hall (DeShawn); grandchildren, Marie Barron, Brandon Winston, Sydney and Jordyn Hall; one brother, Roderick Winston; five sisters, Mary Render (Willie), Sharon Winston, Mildred Scott, Tina Jackson and Bernice Atkinson; bonus son, Kenneth Reed (Danna); bonus daughter, Dena Escoe (Eric); special friends, Morris Winston (Barbara), Odis Buffington Jr. (Ollie) and Charles Martin (Jacqueline); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.