Douglas Duke "Doug" Strange Jr.

Douglas Duke "Doug" Strange Jr., 51, of Holliday, passed away on April 10, 2025. It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Douglas Duke "Doug" Strange Jr., who left this world far too soon on April 10, 2025.
The family will receive friends at a visitation from 6:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 17th at Lunn's Colonial Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 18th at Archer City High School Gymnasium with Ron Redding officiating. Interment will follow at Holliday Cemetery under the direction of Lunn's Colonial Funeral Home.
Doug was the son of the late Joyce (Stearman) Strange and Douglas Duke Strange, Sr., He was born on October 9, 1973, in Wichita Falls, Texas, and grew up on the family ranch in Archer County. He attended school in Holliday ISD until 6th grade and then finished at Archer City ISD. At the age of 17, Doug lost his father and took over running the family ranch, which his family continues to do today.
Doug married Melanie Howry on August 5, 1995. He attended the police academy during their first year of marriage and has since then served his law enforcement career in Archer County. Doug was Archer County Constable Precinct 1 for the past 12 years and has served a total of 28 years in Archer County. He was a dedicated police officer, a true protector, and a man of deep integrity who spent his life serving others. Whether on duty or at home, Doug led with strength, compassion, and an unwavering sense of duty. His colleagues remember him as courageous, dependable, and someone who never hesitated to go the extra mile for his community and his team.
But Doug was more than a cop-he was the heart of his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud and loving father, a cherished uncle, and a loyal friend. His laughter filled rooms, and his advice grounded those around him. His presence made everyone feel a little safer, a little more seen, and a lot more loved.
In 2002 Doug and Melanie were blessed with twins, Duke and Marklie Strange. He enjoyed getting to be a big part of their lives. He took them to work on the ranch, taught them how to shoot, and attended all of their events. Doug was a shotgun coach for Archer County 4-H and the Holliday Shooting Team. He loved nothing more than coaching and helping kids become trap shooters. Doug enjoyed hunting, outdoor sports and hanging out with his friends and family. Doug's favorite pastime was being ornery, but he would do anything for anyone. When he loved, he loved big. He had a huge heart and has touched many lives in his 51 years.
Doug is survived by his loving wife, Melanie Strange; his children, Duke and Marklie Strange; a nephew, extended family, fellow officers, and countless friends whom he considered family.
Doug is preceded in death by his parents, Joyce and Doug "D.D." Strange; his father-in- law, Jackie Howry; and his nephew, Jackson Newton.
Though his time with us was cut tragically short, Doug's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the values he instilled, and the love he gave so freely.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Doug's name to either the Archer Service Center or Holliday Community Center.