Billy Joe Douglas

Stockton, CA

March 15, 1937 - April 17, 2007

Billy Joe Douglas was born to the union of Inez Douglas and Ennis Douglas on March 15, 1937, in Heidenheimer, Texas. Billy, passed away Tuesday, April 17, 2007 at the age of 70. He was baptized in Texas and continuously grew his dedication and devotion to Christianity. One of his dreams came true, for he settled in California. He and his former wife, Princess L. Brooks are the parents of seven children, Michael Murray, Larry Murray, Audrey Douglas, Kathy Davis, Sandra Douglas, Jacqueline Gonzales and Joanna Dorsey. In 1963, Billy began a successful and illustrious career with the Operative Plasterers and Cement Masons Officers Local 814. He retired from the Cement Masons in March 1999 with 36 years of distinguished service. He also had a long and successful career as a real estate entrepreneur. Billy credited his success to his parents. He often said, "My mother and father were my greatest encouragers. They always instilled within us a desire to be somebody. This along with my faith in the Lord has sustained me." His theme in life was - If you put God first in your life, treat others the way you want to be treated and honor your mother and father, you will be greatly blessed all the days of your life.

He leaves to cherish his memory, seven children; twenty grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; seven siblings and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, April 24, 2007 from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Jesse E. Cooley, Jr. Mortuary Chapel, 640 N. California St., Stockton. Service will be on Wednesday, April 25, at 11:00 a.m. at Greater Faith Missionary Baptist Church, 345 W. Worth St., Stockton. Committal at Stockton Rural Cemetery.