James Douglas "Doug" Ashley, age 75, of Palestine, Texas, entered into the presence of the Lord on December 20, 2025.

Doug was born on January 13, 1950, to Fred Douglas Ashley and Annie Mae Peevy Ashley. He lived his life with the steady strength of a builder; not only in the work of his hands, but in the way he provided, protected, and loved the people God placed in his care. As a master builder and owner of Doug Ashley Construction, Doug took pride in honest craftsmanship, hard work, and a job done right.

Above all, Doug loved his family deeply and faithfully. He was known for a strong work ethic and a generous heart; someone who would give you the shirt off his back without question. His life was a reminder that love shows up, serves, and gives. And if you knew Doug, you probably picture him the same way so many do: wearing his notable white V-neck t-shirts with the split sleeves, or one of his favorite denim Wrangler pearl snap shirts. Simple, steady, and unmistakably him.

While our hearts are heavy, we do not grieve without hope. We find comfort in God's promise, and we hold to the assurance of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

Doug is survived by the love of his life for 55 years, Shelia Ashley of Palestine, Texas; daughter Kim Butler and husband Glen of Bullard, Texas; son Jeremy "Thumper" Ashley and wife Meredith of Bullard, Texas; grandchildren Kaylee Warren and husband Jimmy of Bullard, Texas, Hunter Smith of Bullard, Texas, Hayden Smith and wife Viri of Palestine, Texas, Barrett Ashley of Bullard, Texas, and Tenley Ashley of Bullard, Texas; and great-grandchildren Adlee Hollingsworth and Millee Warren of Bullard, Texas, and Rowan Smith and Greyson Smith of Palestine, Texas.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 3:00–5:00 p.m. at Cartmell Lakes Clubhouse, 400 Cartmell Circle, Palestine, Texas 75801.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Heart to Heart Hospice and hospice nurse Ashley Hearrell, RN, for their compassionate care and support.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." — 2 Timothy 4:7