Douglas Eugene Goolsby (December 6, 1954 - March 29, 2026)
CAPT Doug Goolsby (USNR) died peacefully March 29, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born Dec. 6, 1954, to Bin and Patsy Goolsby. Doug spent his early years in Andrews, Texas where sand and oil were the most abundant materials. He graduated from Liberty-Eylau High School in Texarkana. Needing someone to feed and dress him, Doug applied and was accepted to the U.S. Naval Academy. In addition to the superb education, great roommates, and true friends, during this time Doug’s uncle introduced him to his true love, Debby Chapman of Levittown, Pa. Graduating in 1977, Doug completed Nuclear Power School after promising Admiral Rickover he would study more and see Debby less. Defiantly, they were married November 24, 1978.
Doug served on the USS Baton Rouge (SSN-689), in Norfolk, VA. The submarine was in port long enough for them to have their daughter, Meghan. Missing months of her first year convinced Doug to leave the active-duty Navy, but he continued his service in the Naval Reserve.
Doug was soon working for the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) in submarine shipbuilding logistics. His NAVSEA assignments led to exciting times with special project boats supporting Navy Seals, logistics manager for amphibious ships, and eventually Acquisition Manager responsible for delivering Wasp Class LHD amphibious ships. In his spare time, Doug completed the Naval War College, a master’s in financial management from American University, and a master’s in international relations from Salve Regina University. Also in their spare time, Debby and Doug were blessed with three sons, Ryan, Kevin, and Darren. And then there was no more spare time.
Doug transitioned from Navy shipbuilding to the Intelligence Community and became the Deputy Program Manager for a unique, joint agency Integrated Systems Program Office. Upon retirement from the government, Doug started Goolsby Solutions, LLC and continued to support national defense as a consultant.
In his Naval Reserve career Doug served in units at the Pentagon, COMSUBLANT, and was the Commanding Officer of an Emory S. Land submarine tender reserve unit.
While proud of his career achievements, nothing satisfied Doug more than spending time with his family. He enjoyed every minute of his life with Debby, who never stopped making him laugh throughout their 47 years of marriage. He loved raising his children, coaching their youth sports as if he knew something, helping them in academics where he knew a little, and seeing them grow to be wonderful adults, solid citizens, and awesome parents.
Doug is survived by his wife, Debby; children, Meghan Renehan (Ed), Ryan Goolsby (Maria), Kevin Goolsby (Whitney), and Darren Goolsby (Sarah); sister Robbie, and nine grandchildren Logan, Grady, Grant, Elaina, Riley, Delaney, Kailey, Malachy, and Nicole, who affectionately called him “Poppy.” His memory lives on in the way this family lives their lives.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Blue Ridge Hospice, 333 W. Cork St. Winchester, VA 22601; (https://give.blueridgecare.org/campaign/706674/donate).
A Celebration of Life will be held 11:00 A. M. Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at Enders & Shirley Funeral Home Chapel, Berryville, followed with interment at Cool Springs Natural Cemetery, Berryville, VA.
Enders & Shirley Funeral Home Chapel
1050 W Main St
Berryville, VA 22611
540-955-1062
https://www.endersandshirley.com/obituary/douglas-goolsby