Douglas Goard

Douglas MacArthur Goard, Sr. was the second-born child, but the first and only son of Alice “Mae” Amanda and Harlsie Carter Goard. Born with a veil over his face — a symbol long associated with spirituality — Douglas entered the world on February 2, 1943, in Beckley, West Virginia. 

When Douglas was about six years old, his mother Mae and stepfather Leroy Edmondson married and relocated the family to Chicago. It was there that Douglas put down roots and built a life on his own terms — with cool swag, tough love, determination, and perseverance. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving proudly as an Artillery Specialist. Partial to the crisp fit and sharp creases of the uniform, Douglas later built his career in another uniform as a Conductor, with the Chicago Transit Authority. Steadfast and loyal, he wore that CTA uniform with pride and style until his retirement. 

Douglas was a man of many passions. A creative spirit, he enjoyed photography and producing DVDs, CDs, and tapes. He was also an aquarium enthusiast who spent countless hours tending to his beloved oscars. A true music aficionado, his spaces were always filled with smooth Slow Jams, Neo-Soul, Funky R&B, and cool Jazz. Sports, too, were a central part of his life — whether watching football, basketball, or boxing, or competing fiercely on the racquetball court, where he often proved himself a champion. 

Family was Douglas’s heartbeat. He was the director of many “family therapy sessions” at The Bar — laughing, crying, advising, and debating with his loved ones. That was his vulnerable space, his gift to the family. If you ever sat there, know that you were deeply loved. 

Keeping his love alive is his devoted wife of over 50 years, Eura Goard; his youngest son Steven and daughter-in-law April, his grandchildren Nadiyah, Sabina, Preston, Jaxson, and Genysis; his son Derrick, his grandsons Derrick Jr. and Tyrek; and his eldest granddaughter Tyler. He is also remembered by his beloved sister Priscilla “Rita” Primous, his nieces Rochelle “Wildchild” and Krystal; cousins, nephews, nieces, great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-grandchildren. Douglas is reunited with his eldest son, Douglas Jr., who departed before him. 

We will forever carry his lessons, his laughter, and his love. Douglas MacArthur Goard, Sr. — our patriarch — lives on in the blood and souls of his family. Never to be forgotten.

West Georgia Crematory, Austell, GA has been entrusted with arrangements.