Doug Burlage

Doug Burlage, born in Norfolk, Virginia on September 20, 1956, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on a sunny day by the water on March 27, 2025. He was predeceased by his parents, L. Charles and Beverly Burlage; and wife, Tara Burlage.
Doug was a devoted father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend. He is survived by his loving daughters, Dana Cole Burlage and Blake Burlage Jernigan; and son-in-law Will Jernigan. He also leaves behind three granddaughters who adored their "Papa": Everly Jernigan, Harbor Jernigan, and Hartford Burlage. Doug was also blessed with a devoted brother and sister-in-law, Verne and Janis Burlage; stepmother, Carol Burlage, and nieces Leslie Burlage and Waverly Hubbard.
Doug was a native of Virginia Beach, and graduated from First Colonial High School in 1974. He spent his childhood working at his dad's boardwalk hotels, The Breakers, Holiday Inn, Barclay Towers, and Quality Inn. He lived in many different places, such as Florida, San Diego and Hawaii, "going to college," but really earning a degree in surfing. He later built his career building beautiful custom homes in both Virginia Beach and the Outer Banks.
Doug was a true free spirit and the definition of "don't worry, be happy." A man of adventure, kindness, and laughter - he lived life without borders - traveling to all seven continents, surfing the waves of distant shores, and making friends wherever he went. He knew no strangers. Whether you had one dollar or a billion, he wanted to know your story. He was described by many as the funniest person they've ever met. A golden retriever lover and avid cat adopter, his love for animals was as deep as his love for people, maybe deeper. He loved to run and workout at Wareing's Gym. Though his adventures took him around the globe, his favorite place to be was walking or riding his bike on the boardwalk of Virginia Beach. Even in his last year and fight with Alzheimer's, the path along the boardwalk was one he never forgot.
Special thanks to Doug's most devoted caregiver and best friend who made his last years full of life and laughter, Bebe Cole, and also to Anne Tammaro. Special thanks to Trinity Hospice for the beauty and comfort they brought to his final days.
A memorial service by Pastor Michael Simone will take place on Thursday, April 3, at 1:00 PM at H.D. Oliver Funeral Home, 2002 Laskin Road, Virginia Beach. A celebration of life will follow at Waterman's The Attic at 3:00 PM. Bring your funniest Doug story.