Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Doug Marlette Obituary
Marlette was the passenger in the car, which struck a tree after skidding on a rain-slicked road, said John Garrison, the coroner in Mississippi's Marshall County.
"Evidently, it hydroplaned, left the highway and struck the tree," Garrison said.
Marlette's editorial cartoons and his comic strip, "Kudzu," are syndicated worldwide.
Marlette began drawing political cartoons for The Charlotte Observer in 1972.
He won the Pulitzer in 1988 for his editorial cartooning in both Charlotte and at the Atlanta Constitution, which he had joined the year before.
He said at the time that his biting approach could be traced in part to "a grandmother bayoneted by a guardsman during a mill strike in the Carolinas. There are some rebellious genes floating around in me."
He joined New York Newsday in 1989. He has also worked for newspapers in Florida and Tulsa, Okla.
"Cartoons are windows into the human condition," he said when he joined the Tulsa World last year. "It's about life."
Copyright © 2007 The Associated Press
215 Entries
Karen Bishop Barrett
December 19, 2007
Remembering Doug from my early days at the Charlotte Observer (in the 70's)... talented, enthusiastic and on his way...condolences to the wife and family...
Ben Rogers
November 27, 2007
I went to school with Doug at Florida State. He was one of my favorite persons from those days. He made some posters for me of some of my favorite Marlette cartoons that appeared in the school newspaper, the Flambeau. I kept them for years. We went to anti war protests together and talked about religion and politics with groups of friends far into the night on many occasions. He stimulated my thinking and helped me birth a lifelong cynicism that continues to get me in trouble.I've found that love of truth and being a minister have never been very compatable. We who knew him at various times in our lives are richer for having experienced him; but such a big life leaves a big void in its' passing. My deepest sympathy to those who loved him most, his family and many friends.
How you can show support
Carol Norris
October 27, 2007
My husband read The Bridge this August, so soon after Doug's death. After we both read it, we bought Magic Time, another wonderful novel. We had always enjoyed his cartoons and now we can say we loved his books as well.
Please accept our sympathy in your great loss. We mourn America's loss of a wonderful wit and talent.
Donna Ivey
August 20, 2007
I am still stunned by the loss of Doug Marlette - His wisdom and humor was a big part of my mornings. I will miss his presence in the world. My condolences to his family. He touched many lives in a wonderful way.
Kokou EKOUAGOU
July 26, 2007
Congratulations.
Blessings & Peace
Kokou Ekouagou-Plastician-TOGO
Susan Stockell
July 20, 2007
To Mrs. Marlette and Family and Friends of Doug Marlette,
Please accept my sympathy for your loss. I have enjoyed Mr. Marlette's cartoons, both editorial and comic strips, along with his first book, The Bridge. I will open his second book with bittersweet pleasure in his writing.
His wit and insights will be missed.
Sincerely,
Susan Stockell
David McNeill
July 18, 2007
Melinda,
He was undoubtedly my favorite cartoonist, and the world of Journalism will miss him, as well as those of us who were his friends. Blessings & Peace
Kelly Gabriele
July 16, 2007
Melinda,
Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Doug introduced me to the writings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer when I was a teenager doing Little Theatre in Charlotte. He gave me "Letters and Papers From Prison," a that book shaped my Christian beliefs in college, into adulthood and still resonates with me today. I will forever be grateful for that.
As we all know, Doug was a gifted, funny, thoughtful man who was a joy to be around.
It was a pleasure meeting you at his book signing in Myrtle Beach a few years ago and talking about producing "Kudzu" with you both.
Doug's presence will be greatly missed on this planet and I look forward to talking to him about "everything and everything" one day in the heavens.
Much love and sympathy to you and your family.
Kelly Jones Gabriele
Little River, SC
Nancy King
July 15, 2007
Melinda,
I had the pleasure of meeting Doug at a booksigning in Birmingham and
at an awards banquet for Pat and also at Pat and Sandra's.
He was totally delightful and I knew instantly why Sandra and Pat
were so crazy about him.
Please know that you and your son are in my thoughts and prayers.
Nancy King
(Sandra Conroy's sister)
Sherry Fontaine
July 15, 2007
Though I never met Doug (I'm kicking myself for not going to his recent book signing in Hillsborough), I have much in common with him. For the first time in YEARS, I sat down with pen and paper yesterday and began to illustrate another one of my delimas...MOMENTS later I learned of his death on the tele...proof that he's with us now and more effective than ever? I like to think so. We should consider him not lost, but found, and be comforted by this.
Susan Quinn Wade
July 15, 2007
Melinda,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I have enjoyed Doug's brillance through the years, along with so many others. I have thought of you often since our SMHS days. May you find peace in this difficult time, Susan
Tom McMeeken
July 15, 2007
Mr. Marlette's cartoons always sent a powerful message that were right on the money. They will be missed.
Bobby Stephens
July 15, 2007
My thoughts and prayers go out to Doug's friends and family. He was a friend while at Laurel and I often thought of him and the humor he brought to his class mates while in school. I will never forget him and the influence he had on so many.
May God be with the family and friends at this time of need.
Maudy Benz
July 15, 2007
Doug's generosity impacted so many of us who were starting out in the arts. He helped me find my first literary agent. He helped artists understand that one must never give up. The creative life, the life of the mind, is a tough life, but worth it. My son, recently brain injured in a similar one vehicle accident in the rain, is in the hosptital, slowly coming back to us, we hope. I send my heart felt sympathy to Doug's wife and son. I understand the shock you've undergone. Blessings, always.
Doris Malin
July 15, 2007
i HAD NEVER HEARD OF Doug Marlette when I I RANDOMLY PICKED UP A BOOK ENTITLED "mAGIC tIME" from MY LIBRARY SHELF I BECAME FASCINATED WITH THE STORY, THE TALENT OF THE WRITER,his bringing this terrible time in our history into the present. His depth of characters astounded me and I told everyone who loves books and reading to get this book. I was about halfway through the book when the tragic news of his death was reported on TV and in the newspapers. I read the rest of the book in tears. I have just begun to read "The Bridge" and not only send condolences to his friends and family, but to readers all over the world who have now been deprived of the joy of reading the words of a true wordsmith.They are few and far between.
Robin Barrington
July 14, 2007
He said the things we felt before we even knew we were thinking about them. He was an artist with a sense of humor. He was a man whose wit remained sharp and whose talent never slackened.
The Reeds
July 14, 2007
Marlette Family:
My deepest sympathy. May the God of all comforts who comforts us in all our sorrow give you the needed strenght to endure.
"God is near to those that are broken at heart; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves." (Psalm 34:18)
Arnold and Tonja Smith
July 14, 2007
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. We will continue to hold your family in our prayers. Love you.
Debbie Pennington
July 13, 2007
I had the great pleasure of seeing Doug and Pat Conroy at the Fesitval of the Book. I had been a fan of Pats for years but became a instant fan of Dougs on that occasion.
I sent an email to his website last year asking if he would consider speaking to my book club. Two hours later the phone rang and it was Doug himself. I was shocked and pleased beyond words that he would take the time to speak to one of his fans. Unforfunately the timing didn't work out but I had hoped in future to have the opportunity too meet him in person. He was such a nice man. I have since read and enjoyed both The Bridge and Magic Time and was sincerely looking forward to his next book. Sadly, with his untimely death this will never come to pass.
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his wife, son, family and friends. I hope it will give you some comfort to know how much he meant to so many people.
Doug, rest in peace!
Susan Brewer
July 13, 2007
There's heartbreak in Treetops. I am so sorry to hear of the loss of such a great mind.
Kathleen Mackay
July 13, 2007
Doug wrote me an unsolicited fan letter -- his first -- after he read my new book on Bob Dylan. We struck up an exciting, almost daily email conversation. I helped to arrange for him to be invited to the Concord Authors' Festival in Concord, MA in the fall and was looking forward to hearing him speak at Harvard the same day.He was so generous and encouraging to a fellow author. My heart is broken for his family and for the rest of us. Doug, May you stay Forever Young.
Jo Bass
July 13, 2007
Charles Kuralt, Jim Shumaker, Jeff MacNelly and now Doug Marlette - a talented quartet from the Southern part of Heaven. I'd love to be eavesdropping on their conversation now.
Barbara Waddell
July 12, 2007
Please accept my deepest sympathies. I was privileged to be able meet Doug through my daughter, who was a student of his at UNC. The Books and Banter book club of Burlington will miss their favorite author.
Barbara and Martin Webster
July 12, 2007
Even though we hadn't seen Doug for more than 15 years, his spirit was still infusing the Earth and our lives very much and it was somehow a comfort to know he was out there still making people uncomfortable and pressing all of us to look outside our comfort zone. He was a brilliant man, and extremely courageous. My life was certainly made richer by knowing him. My condolences to you, Melinda, as I know your heart is heavy. We feel a great loss so we know yours must be enormous.
Ron Dickson
July 12, 2007
My deepest sympathy to Doug's wife and family. He often took time to meet his fans. I frequently took him a box of banana Moon Pies when I especially admired his cartoon. He encouraged me to get my book about Moon Pies printed and gratiously let me include his series in Kudzu about a mysterious person throwing Moon Pies.
Mike Keefe
July 12, 2007
My condolences to Doug's family. From the beginning, Doug's cartoons were infused with passion and a uniquely southern point of view. That perspective extended to his comic strip and writings. Journalism has lost a singular voice.
Ira McCain
July 12, 2007
My sincere condolences to Doug's family and loved ones. I am thankful for his willingness to share his tremendous talents/gifts with us. May God comfort you.
Chris Bell
July 12, 2007
I moved to North Carolina in 1985, not quite sure what I had gotten myself into. Soon after the Marlette cartoon of the barnyard full of turkeys with Jesse Helms' head ran in the Charlotte Observer and I knew I'd found a home.
Jeff Craddock
July 12, 2007
I moved to the Carolinas in 1972, so I was there from the beginning of his career with the Observer. I've always loved his work--especially the extraordinary tribute to the Challenger astronauts. I just looked at it again and am once again struck by such simplicity and depth. And it very much reflects how I felt, when I heard of the passing of this extraordinary man.
Clay Kirby
July 12, 2007
He was my cousin that I never got to see much of but will alway's be in my heart!
Mary McNeil
July 12, 2007
This Yankee loved Marlette. He will be missed!
Emma Griffis
July 12, 2007
I so enjoyed meeting Doug and Melinda just last week at a Fourth of July picnic. Doug played a fierce game of croquet, and we all had a great time. He and his work will be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with Melinda, family, and friends.
Joe and Dottie Distelheim
July 12, 2007
The 1970s, when we and Doug were at The Observer, were tumultous years in the nation and in Charlotte -- Vietnam and busing, Watergate and PTL, Nixon and Judge McMillan... fertile fields for reporting and commentary. How lucky the paper was to have a cartoonist with talent and smarts and guts far beyond his years... although his top editors and certainly some readers perhaps didn't always appreciate that. He made waves -- and the waves churned waters that needed churning.
In a newsroom full of talented people, I believe Doug was better at what he did than any of the rest were at what we did.
Ryan Winkler
July 12, 2007
I am a graduate student at the University of Oklahoma who was fortunate enough to have studied humor writing with Professor Marlette. He was truly one of those professors who changed my life, and I will miss his presence and encouragement as I pursue my career in writing. My prayers are with his family--and with Elvis, who is probably enduring a long lecture on the artistry of Bruce Springsteen as I write this.
CHARLIE DANIEL
July 12, 2007
DOUG WAS TRULY SOMEONE SPECIAL.I ADMIRED,ENJOYED AND ENVIED HIS WORK.I AM SADDENED BY OUR LOSS,,
John Sherffius
July 12, 2007
Someone of Doug Marlette's standing cannot be replaced. His work was a model of clarity, creativity and conviction. The truly great editorial cartoonists are those we learn from. Doug was a giant.
Susan Walker
July 12, 2007
He was such a talent, and I always looked forward to his cartoons when he was at the Observer. My prayers go out to Melinda, Jackson, and all of Doug's family and friends.
Steve Bailey
July 12, 2007
I was a classmate and teammate with Doug at Laurel's Watkins High School. We were completely opposites in personality and demeaner, but became close friends in school as a result of Doug helping me with several classes that we shared. He was the class comedian but very intelligent. All of his classmates got to preview his future success as we observed KUDZU and many of his future famous cartoon characters while in high school. Doug loved to quickly express himself through 'doodling' and sketching cartoon scenes at a frantic pace while the rest of the class was trying to listen to the teacher. I always looked forward to my classes with Doug as he made the most boring subjects fun and even the gruffest teachers would give in to Doug's disruptive humor.
I have not seen Doug in a number of years but tracked him through his work. I had planned to visit with him during the last few years when he would come to Mississippi but something always came up and I said , oh well, I would catch him next time. The front page story and Doug's picture by the article in Tuesday's paper abruptly cancelled ever re-visiting with my old friend. It is so sad that next time will not arrive.
My prayers go out to Doug's family and friends. He will be missed by us all.
Aretha Rogers
July 12, 2007
I was honored to attend a luncheon sponsored by the Women of the Motion Picture Industry in Charlotte, North Carolina. Doug was the guest speaker and cartoonist. Wow! What talent! Your loss is great and I am truly sorry.
Lynne Stevenson
July 12, 2007
The world of political satire and cartoon artists in general just got a lot smaller and colder. Rest In Peace, Mr. Marlette. You made this world a much better place with your uncanny wit, boundless grace, and unique sense of humor. You will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Marlette family at this most difficult time in their lives.
PATSY GORDON
July 12, 2007
My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Alan Gardner
July 12, 2007
I remember coming across "In Your Face: A Cartoonist at Work" in the local library and it quickly became my textbook of study about editorial cartooning. Doug's gift was to find the one image that packed the greatest punch and he did it consistently.
Kristy Shumaker
July 12, 2007
Doug Marlette was an extraordinary talent and inspiration. He was one of a kind, and I am fortunate to have known him and his family. Doug will be greatly missed. My prayers are with Melinda and Jackson.
Lynn Craddock
July 11, 2007
Thoughts and prayers to the Marlette family in the loss of such a talented man gone from us all to soon.
John Branch
July 11, 2007
I was fortunate to have first met Doug when I was just starting out at The Daily Tar Heel at UNC. I was struck by his strong opinions, which were delivered with bold brush strokes and biting humor. On top of that, his work had a unique Southern flavor. His enthusiam for his craft was palpable. My sympathy goes out to his family; he will be missed.
Valerie M
July 11, 2007
He was so talented. I will miss his great cartoons. So sorry for your loss.
July 11, 2007
Melinda & Jackson,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you both. Steve, Theressa & Justin
G. Hill
July 11, 2007
The South lost its greatest Cartoonist-Laureate on July 10, 2007.
Rob Rogers
July 11, 2007
The cartooning world has suffered a great loss. Doug Marlette was a giant in the field of editorial cartooning. His cartoons were funny, courageous, compassionate and hard-hitting. If you were a politician or a fat cat, Doug was not afraid to get "In Your Face," as the title of his 1991 book so aptly put it. I didn't know Doug well but I spent time with him in Pittsburgh when he came through on a book tour. I also had the privilege of attending a book release party at his New York home when he worked for Newsday. His genuine warmth, southern charm and hospitality belied the venom he heaped on deserving targets in his political cartoons.
On behalf of the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists (AAEC), I send heartfelt condolences to Doug's wife Melinda and his son Jackson. I also send sympathies to his friends and colleagues at the Tulsa World and at all the other papers he worked for. From Charlotte to Atlanta to New York to Tallahassee, Doug left his mark on everyone he came in contact with. He will be missed by journalists, cartoonists and cartoon lovers everywhere.
Rob Rogers
Editorial Cartooninst
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
AAEC President
Marshall Ramsey
July 11, 2007
I received Doug's "Shred this Book" as a gift when I first started as an editorial cartoonist. I studied it like a text. Last November when he came through our newsroom as part of a book tour, I got to meet him and he signed that book -- 18 years later. When our reporter told me yesterday that Doug had died in a car crash on U.S. 78, I looked up on my shelf at the book, stunned. I still can't believe it. My prayers go out to his wife and son.
Marshall Ramsey
Editorial Cartoonist
The Clarion-Ledger
Justin Bilicki
July 11, 2007
Doug has been a true inspiration to me through my young career as a cartoonist. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family. He has surely made an impact on the rest of us.
Adam Zyglis
July 11, 2007
I'm sorry I never got a chance to meet Doug in the short time I've been a working editorial cartoonist. Yet I feel I knew him through his work. Full of humor, truth and great conviction. A legend and role model for all of his colleagues...
Adam Zyglis
The Buffalo News
joel pett
July 11, 2007
I'm so sorry, Melinda. Peace be with you.
Clay Jones
July 11, 2007
Doug, thanks for writing "In Your Face". My condolences to the Marlette family and to the entire journalism community.
John Schelp
July 11, 2007
After finishing "The Bridge" just last week, I drove around Hillsborough to see Eno Cotton Mills, Burnside, West End, the railroad tracks by the Eno River, mill houses on Bellvue, Nash and Webb, and other inspirations for Doug Marlette's first novel.
Spoke with Marlette at last year's Festival of the Book in Durham. Learned that he lived as a kid on Maryland Avenue, went to EK Powe School on Durham's Ninth Street -- where his most influential teacher was Miss Alice Eakes. (EK Powe was named after the first manager of Erwin Cotton Mills in West Durham).
Had already started talking with folks about the possibility of having Marlette come speak to the students at his old school.
Can't do it now. This is so very sad.
Lynne Bradley Hiltz
July 11, 2007
Melinda,
We worked together back in the WBTV days. My husband and I are so sorry for your loss and for the loss to the world. Beyond his amazing talent, Doug was a kind, sweet and generous man. He will be deeply missed. We will keep you and Jackson in our prayers.
Bill Perkins
July 11, 2007
I had the good fortune to meet Doug twice, most recently at a Books Alive event in Panama City, Fla., a few years ago. He was as near genuis as I have met, and a very unassuming guy. He will be missed.
Bob Englehart
July 11, 2007
My heart goes out to Melinda and young Jackson who just buried his grandpa last week. Bless you both and may God's peace find your hearts.
Walt Handelsman
July 11, 2007
Doug was a giant in the cartooning business.
Intense...Unafraid...all with a wonderful drawing style that drew the readers in.
He will be greatly missed.
Sad. Sad. Sad.
Walt Handelsman
Newsday
Editorial Cartoonist
Diane Fuller
July 11, 2007
Doug made us laugh - and think. He thought in images. He drew truth with a pitchfork turned pen, and bedeviled the hypocrites hiding behind Bibles and privilege. As a man, he was kind and gentle. I was briefly at the Charlotte Observer in 1975 - 6, and the best part was knowing Doug.
Elizabeth Ream
July 11, 2007
I never had the opportunity to meet Mr. Marlette in person much to my regret, but he did make himself accessible to others. He graciously gave of his time to others and his keen observations will be missed. Our prayers are with y'all
Don Stevenson
July 11, 2007
The state and nation has lost a journalist treasure. The Eagle weeps!
He inspired me to enter the challenging avocation of editorial cartooning in the 1980's.
He gave me one of his originals in 1973 and we kept in touch over thses 30 years. In his memory, silence of the nation's laughter will be deafening. Farewell my friend.
Donald Stake
July 11, 2007
I met Doug when he invited my wife and me to visit his office at Newsday. I had written him an unabashed fan letter, and he called me on the phone to arrange the date and time. He asked me to bring some of my cartoons I'd published in a local newspaper--which I did. He was gracious and encouraging. He made a difference in my life, and my work. He was both courageous and kind, the stuff prophets are made of. We shall miss him. His family and friends are in my prayers.
John and Gloria Barringer
July 11, 2007
One of the luckiest things that happened to me when I opened a bookstore in Charlotte 30 years ago, was to meet an incredibly talented young political cartoonist who quickly became a friend. I remember that "literary wedding of the year" when Doug married Melinda, officiated by Will Cambell, with Pat Conroy as Best Man and Jules Pfeiffer as an usher. I treasure now, more thanever, the deep and profound (and fun!) times I had with Doug at signings-and his willingness to share his insights on the South with my Rotary Club. Most of all, I will miss this jolly,good,laughing man. Rest well, Doug..today not only the Eagle sheds a tear! Melinda and Jackson, our thoughts,love and prayers are with you.
Philathia Brown
July 11, 2007
Melinda my heartfelt condolences goes out to you and your son. I remember Doug and you while living in Charlotte and playing volleyball at Latta. You guys were perfect together and I always wished I would find the love and romance that you all had for myself. May God Bless you and help ease your pain during this time of mourning.
Helen Charbonneau
July 11, 2007
I enjoyed the humor of Kudzu for years...and sought out Mr. Marlette's political cartoons for their view of the world, as well as the human condition.
I also teach a unit on political cartoons...Mr. Marlette's works have always been our favorites.
He will be missed.
Helen Charbonneau
Kavin Ross
July 11, 2007
I was shock and still upset by the passing of a great man. I had the opportunity to receive a large version of one of Doug's cartoons as related to the Tulsa Race Riot and the Oklahoma's 100 year celebration. Doug made it more special with a special note addressed to me. Now framed and hanging on the wall at my father's home every time I would see his work I will remember my brief relationship with such a great guy.
We will all miss you Doug.
Chris Hohn
July 11, 2007
Doug Marlette helped shaped my awareness as a young person living in Charlotte with his thought provoking editorial cartoons in the Observer. I feel like I lost a special friend when he left Charlotte to work for the Atlanta Constitution, which is now small to what the world has recently suffered with his passing.
Jack Summers
July 11, 2007
After being a great fan of his art during my college years, I got to know Doug informally in the early '80s...We would meet around midday at the old Wad's drugstore and lunch counter on East Boulevard to play the "Space Invaders" and "Galactia" (correct name?) arcade games (I usually won, but he improved greatly over time!)
By then, he was well-nationally for his work at the Observer, but I've rarely known someone who was more natural, more modest, more comfortable in his own skin, being who he was. As many have said, he loved life, particularly life in the South with all its contradictions, foibles, ironies. His gentle criticism of the life around him was driven by his affection and love for it; he had, to paraphrase Will Durant's comment about Desiderius Erasmus's relationship to the Church of the 15th century, "a lover's quarrel" with the South. He loved it so deeply, and had such a keen sense of its possibilities, that he spent his career urging it to be the best it could! Southerners have lost a great voice, a great moral conscience, and a great heart.
Jo Ann Vaughan
July 11, 2007
I will miss Doug very much. I enjoyed his editorial cartoons when I lived in Charlotte. He was one of the few that I made sure I looked for every day. Kudzoo has been a delight to read over the years. Doug had a gift of hitting the heart with his comments without being rude. I'll miss him in the years to come.
bruce kepley
July 11, 2007
There will be much outpouring of grief surrounding the passing of Doug Marlette...he was unique in that he was able to see complex issues and, with one panel of art, simply them...my favorite of all his works is the eagle shedding a tear...no words required about a heartbreaking subject...we'll all miss his talent, but even more his life force. If he were outside looking in and could do one more cartoon about his passing, would it be a tree kneeling in prayer??
Win Minter
July 11, 2007
Our paths crossed in a minor business venture during the late 1970's, and I remember thinking he was the coolest person I had met up to that point in my life. After 30 years, he stilll is.
Joel Blackwelder
July 11, 2007
I had an opportunity to interview Doug for a documentary that I pro-duced on the cotton mill heritage of North Carolina. We discussed his novel, "The Bridge," as well as his observations on life in the north and the south.
Before the interview, he had loaned me his personal family photographs and pamphlets that dated back to the 1930s so I could include these in the documentary. His contributions to my project were and are invaluable.
I send my condolences to his wife, Melinda, who I had the pleasure of meeting, his son, Jackson and all other members of his family.
Mary McGregor
July 11, 2007
God Speed.
Peggy Myers
July 11, 2007
Mr. Marlette will be sorely missed by all. My sympathies to his family and friends.
Bobbi Schlatter-Cable
July 11, 2007
I’m privileged to be looking at an original cartoon of “Doris” (drawn on Intimate Bookshop stationery) as I send heartfelt condolences to Doug’s friends and family today.
It was my pleasure and great good fortune to have known Doug in Charlotte so long ago, and it is now my great sorrow to have to say goodbye so soon. How lucky we all are that Doug shared his keen wit and sharp pen with us for all these years.
David Marlette
July 11, 2007
I am a distant family member. I am from the Ernest/Jonathan Lawrence side of the family in Saxapahaw/Eli Whitney. I live in Raleigh and am Director of Music Ministries at First United Methodist Church of Cary, am nephew of Mildred Marlette who taught at Guilford College. I actually met Doug for the first time at a dinner in the library at Guilford. He was speaking, and I was supposed to speak about my aunt but didn't know that I was until that evening. We sat at the same table and had a good laugh about that, and actually got to talk quite a bit with him. I was so shocked and saddened to hear about his death. My prayers are with you and the family. I would love to know about any arrangements.
Susan Hilger
July 11, 2007
I met Doug while working at The Observer and was so lucky to spend time with him and to know his beautiful wife, Melinda. Doug was one of the most gifted and caring human beings this world has seen. He had so much to offer and he shared all of his brilliance with us. My heart goes out to you, Melinda and to your son, Jackson.
Don Weinstein
July 11, 2007
I was at FSU during the same years (68-72) when Doug was cartoonist for the Florida Flambeau, the school's newspaper. It was clear he had the talent to go far. He designed an award winning cartoon that to this day sticks in my brain - a unifying vision of all facets of popular culture running in the same direction as Chief Seminole, the mascot symbol of Florida State. It was at once uplifting, unifying, inspiring, inciteful and joyous. I will regret now and forever I never got a chance to meet Doug, but his artwork I will carry forever in my mind as pure genius. Doug, you'll be sorely missed.
Kerry Voll
July 11, 2007
I worked with Doug at the Florida State Flambeau back in the '70s. Even then, he was a genius and I followed his career with pleasure. I am so sorry for your loss. It's a sad day...
De Hillyer
July 11, 2007
Doug and I met years ago at Pfeiffer University. He presented a program for clergy and the community using his political cartoons, some of which never made it to press. I arrived early that day and was privileged to spend approximately 15 minutes with him in a one-on-one conversation. We spoke about family, religion, and every day issues.
Doug made me feel as if I was the most important person in his life while we stood together sharing in that chapel aisle. I have gone on-line daily for many years to read not only Kudzu, but to be challenged by his political cartoons. I offer prayers for each of you in his circle of family and friends. May God’s comfort and peace be with you, and may his rich gifts continue to be shared by those of us who knew him primarily through the printed page.
Catherine (Chapin) Mayhew
July 11, 2007
I worked with Doug at the Observer in the late 1970s. I remember being awed by his creativity and true eccentricty. True eccentrics have no idea they're a little off kilter, the mark of genius in his case. Imagine the conversations he's having now with Albert Einstein, Gandhi and Martin Luther King. And Jesus may be weighing in on that electric chair cartoon!
Nancy Coble Damon
July 11, 2007
My heart goes out to Melinda and Jackson. I went to elementary school with
Doug.
Doug had just been in Charlottesville in March, as the luncheon
speaker at the Virginia Festival of the Book.
He was a great speaker--many people told me, (the organizer), he was the best we had
had.
We had a wonderful time, and we were able to renew our friendship
and remember our childhoods.
Doug will be missed so much for both his cartooning and his writing. He was brilliant, both as a cartoonist and as a novelist.
CHARLES MARTIN
July 11, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Nancy Weber
July 11, 2007
I had the opportunity to meet Doug in the early 90's during a presentation at the Savannah College of Art and Design. He delighted everyone that evening with his humor and wisdom. His pen and voice will be missed.
Mical Fowler
July 11, 2007
Doug, we've not seen each other since the Charlotte days in the 70's, when we were both a little wilder, and 'way before you hit your stride. I'll always remember you as a young, passionate genius; you lit up every room you entered. The world is a better place for your being in it, and a dimmer place without you. My thoughts and prayers go to your family.
Becky Dixon
July 11, 2007
I feel a sadness in my heart today. Doug was an awesome human being...he will be missed by many.
Gary Phillips
July 11, 2007
Doug and all of my family grew up and spent time at Watkins High School in Laurel, Ms during some rather turbulant times. Always a great smile and short snips that would bring laughter from everyone.
Those who were luckly enough to have Doug cross their path have no doubt been blessed. The world has lost a most valuable individual.
Our prayers go out to his family.
Peter Wung
July 11, 2007
My deepest condolences to the Marlette family. I am and have been a big fan of Doug Marlete's work ever since I moved to Atlanta for my graduate work in early 1980's. His humor, political savvy, and artistry has held me spellbound ever since. He is sorely missed.
Linda Ramsey
July 11, 2007
Sincerest condolences to Mr. Marlette's family. I have the privilege of working with his nephew, Andy, here in Pensacola. Remember all the good times.
Linda T. Ramsey
Pensacola News Journal
Pensacola, Florida
Elizabeth Wilson
July 11, 2007
Doug Marlette was so talented -- not only "Kudzu" and his wonderful editorials, but as an author -- his novel "The Bridge" is one of the best I've ever read. And though he never lacked for employment, and though Mike Luckovich was a grand successor, we lost a great cartoonist when the AJC let Marlette go. He was one of the best!
Elmer & Jan Hilker
July 11, 2007
Melinda,
It has been a long long time since the JP days but we wanted you to know that you and your family are in our prayers.
Elmer & Jan Hilker
Kristyn & Katy Hilker
Showing 1 - 100 of 215 results
Make a Donation
in Doug Marlette's name
How to support Doug's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Doug Marlette's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored