Charles Douglas McBee

Charles Douglas (Doug) McBee Jr., 83, passed away on February 14, 2026, with his family by his side. He was born on February 11, 1943, to Laura Sayre and Charles Douglas McBee Sr.

Doug was a proud BOI (Born On the Island) who lived most of his life near the Gulf he loved. It was on the Seawall one summer day, that he met the love of his life, Linda Ludgate while she was visiting the island. Though she was initially unsure about him, he won her heart after a short long-distance courtship. They were married on March 2, 1962, and four children soon followed.

Doug loved old cars and spent most of his career working in the auto industry in various capacities before retiring from the City of Galveston as a parts distributor. He was a proud "Poppy" to five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Nothing brought him more joy than attending their many activities and cheering them on.

Doug and Linda shared a love of genealogy and spent many years researching family history together. He was the founder and first Commander of the Sons of the Confederate Veterans, John B. Hood Camp #50, and enjoyed participating in Civil War re-enactments throughout the South.

Doug is survived by his children: Wendy Chide (Paul), Charles "Chuck" McBee (Meri), Gayle Culling (Homer), and William "Bill" McBee (Lonna); his grandchildren: Zach Cornitius, Kaleb Cornitius, Camaron Burney, Wyatt Culling, and Ivy Culling; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda Ludgate McBee; his parents, Laura Sayre Barnes and Charles Douglas McBee Sr.; and his brother, Richard Barnes.

Visitation will be held at Carnes Brothers Funeral Home in Galveston, 1201 23rd Street, on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 9:00-10:00am, with the service immediately following. Burial will take place at Galveston Memorial Park Cemetery in Hitchcock.