With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived, we celebrate the remarkable journey of Willard H. Douglas, Jr. who departed this life on the afternoon of February 16, 2025. He joined his devoted wife of 62 years, Jane E. Douglas who preceded him in death. A true trailblazer devoted public servant, and steadfast man of faith, his legacy of excellence, leadership, and service will continue to inspire generations to come.

Willard, affectionately known as “Doug”, was born February 4, 1932, in Amherst, Virginia to the late Willard H. Douglas, Sr., and Thelma Brown Douglas. He was the oldest of four sibling all of whom preceded him in death: Robert L. Douglas, Sr. (Hoagie), Joan D. Jordon (Charles), Gorell Douglas (Laura), and Ret. MSgt Earl Douglas (Roberta).

Willard was a man of many firsts, breaking barriers and setting new standards of achievement in law, public service, and faith-based leadership. He earned his undergraduate degree from Virginia Union University and went on to obtain his law degree from Howard University School of Law in 1960, paving the way for a distinguished legal career dedicated to justice and equality.

Willard answered the call to serve his country when he was drafted into the United States Marine Corps, where he distinguished himself through dedication and leadership. He rose to the rank of Sergeant and was the recipient of many awards for his outstanding service. Willard’s time in the military further strengthened his commitment to justice, discipline, and service to others.

In 1974, he made history as the first African American elected to a full-time judgeship in the Commonwealth of Virginia. His legal career was filled with groundbreaking accomplishments, including serving as the first African American Assistant Commonwealth Attorney for the City of Richmond, the first African American public defender in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the first African American appointed to the Ethics Committee. His commitment to justice, fairness, and integrity earned him widespread respect within the legal community and beyond.

His lifelong commitment to faith was evident in his dedicated service to the United Methodist Church, where he played a pivotal role at both local and national levels. He was elected to the General & Jurisdictional Conferences in 1972, 1976, 1980, 1984, 1996, 2000, 2004, 2012, and 2016, a testament to his enduring leadership and influence. From 1976 to 1984, he served on the General Commission on Religion and Race, advocating for inclusivity and racial equity within the church. Additionally, he served as Associate Conference Lay Leader, Associate Richmond District Lay Leader, and had the distinct honor of being a charter member of four conference agencies.

His passion for education and mentorship led him to serve on the Board of Trustees at Ferrum College for 10 years and Virginia Wesleyan College for 20 years. He was a past president and treasurer of the Virginia Black Methodists for Church Renewal, ensuring continued progress for African Americans in the Methodist community. His faith and commitment to global Methodist unity took him to six World Methodist Conferences, where he represented his church and values on an international stage. In 2016, he was honored with the Lifetime Ecumenist Award by the Virginia Council of Churches, recognizing his devotion to interfaith collaboration and unity.

Beyond his legal and religious contributions, Willard was also a proud and dedicated member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., having been initiated into the Alpha Gamma Chapter in 1955. A leader among his fraternity brothers, he served as Polemarch of the Richmond (VA) Alumni Chapter on two separate occasions, making history as the only brother in the chapter’s history to accomplish this feat. For the chapter’s 50th anniversary celebration, he was commissioned to write and present the formal history of the chapter. His outstanding dedication and service were recognized through numerous fraternity awards, including the Eastern Province’s highest honor, the Pillar of the Province Award (1991), as well as the Richmond (VA) Alumni Chapter’s Pillar Award, Special Recognition Award, Eastern Province Meritorious Service Award, Habitat for Humanity Contributor’s Award, and the Outstanding Brotherhood Award. In addition to being awarded the Elder Watson Diggs Award at the 75th Grand Chapter Meeting in Cleveland, Ohio.

A former marathon runner, he exemplified endurance, strength, and perseverance, not only in athletics but in every aspect of his life. His commitment to community development and affordable housing led him to serve as a member of the National Redevelopment Officers, where he held the position of Vice President for Commissioners of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials. His tireless efforts to improve housing opportunities in Richmond, Virginia, and across the nation earned him the admiration and gratitude of countless individuals and families.

Throughout his lifetime, Willard received numerous community service awards, all recognizing his unwavering dedication to social justice, housing equity, and civic leadership. He was a man of action, faith, and vision—a leader who not only opened doors for others but also ensured they remained open for future generations.

Above all, Willard was a devoted husband, father, mentor, and friend. His wisdom, generosity, and unwavering spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His life was a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and service.

Willard leaves to cherish the celebration of his life his son, Willard, III; his daughter, Wendelin; two sisters-in-law Roberta Douglas, Laura Douglas; nephews Corlon D. Ford, Neverett A. Eggleston, III, Robert Douglas, Jr., and Chris Brooks; nieces Asolde F. Gillett, Robin Jordon, Jayne Jeanella Eggleston-Vann, Wanda Douglas, Toi D. Johnson, Santina D. Brutus, and Ashley A. Eggleston; cousin Teressa M. Bowles (Baby Sis); a loyal fur baby, Moses; two lifelong friends, Leonard Venter, and Rev. Samuel NeSmith; and a multitude of family and friends.