John Jefferey Douglas

Jeff Douglas, 61, of Rector, formerly of Jonesboro, passed away Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at his home surrounded by family. He was born March 9, 1964, in Jonesboro to Janis Gulley and the late John Douglas.

Jeff was of the Baptist faith and dedicated his life to public service. He worked in law enforcement for more than 34 years, serving the last 24 years with the Rector Police Department and 10 years with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office. During his career, he also served as a D.A.R.E. officer, firearms instructor, and Justice of the Peace for Clay County for 10 years.

Jeff enjoyed spending his free time hunting and fishing.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Plug Eaton, and several aunts and uncles.

Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Sherri Douglas of the home; his mother, Janis Gulley; stepmother, Dee Douglas of Piggott; mother-in-law, Donna Eaton of Jonesboro; brother-in-law, Stephen (Heather) Eaton of Jonesboro; niece and nephew, Holly and Wyatt Eaton, both of Jonesboro; and three aunts, Venedia Martin of Rector, Jo Ann Douglas of Jonesboro, and Jennie Douglas of Hardy.

Funeral service will be Friday, October 10, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Emerson Memorial Chapel with Brother Mike Simmons officiating. Burial will follow at Pine Log Cemetery with active pallbearers being Mike Grimes, Robby Wray, Wade Murray, Kelly Baker, Barry Lillard, Allen Cavines, Richard Petty, Chris Gilliam and Houston Bowden. Honorary pallbearers will be Westside Class of 1982.

Visitation will be Thursday, October 9, 2025 at Emerson Funeral Home from 6:00-8:00 p.m.