Douglas Timmons

Dr. Douglas Timmons, 83, of Brazil, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, at Union Memorial Hospital, surrounded by family.

Born on January 9, 1943, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Douglas was the son of the late Bert A. and Margaret (Hacket) Timmons. As a lifelong educator, Dr. Timmons spent his career in various capacities, driven by a passion for safety education and public service.

Douglas was a proud graduate of Indiana State University, earning his B.S. in Physical Education/Health and Safety in 1967 and his M.S. in 1968. During his undergraduate years, he was an active member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity. He began his teaching career at Harlem High School in Loves Park, Illinois, where he taught Driver Education for eight years, followed by two years at Northern Illinois University.

In 1979, he achieved his Doctorate in Safety Studies and Education from West Virginia University. That same year, he returned to his alma mater, Indiana State University, as a faculty member in Safety Management. He helped establish the National Safety Management Society and the Hoosier Safety Council, the latter of which he served twice as President.

Dr. Timmons was instrumental in organizing national conferences and securing degree accreditation with the American Society of Safety Engineers. His career reached its pinnacle during his tenure as Acting Dean of the College of Nursing, Health, and Human Performance, where he was honored with the University Medallion for Exceptional Service.

He was also very passionate about Fire Safety and acted as a consultant on many fire safety related issues. He also volunteered for years on the Terre Haute Fire Department Merit Board.

While his professional achievements were many, Douglas's greatest pride was his family. He was preceded in death by his parents and his second wife, Mary Lou Henry Timmons. He is survived by his three sons: Jeffrey, Brett, and Michael. His five grandchildren: Bailey, Mirabella, Madeline, Brysen, and Merrick. His stepsons: Billy Joe Henry and Jamie Joe Henry. His six step-grandchildren, Summer, David, Katie, Nathaniel, Devin, and Dalton.

Service Information
In accordance with his wishes, Dr. Douglas Timmons will be interred at Highland Lawn Cemetery in Terre Haute, Indiana in a private ceremony on April 27th. A Celebration of Life Event will be scheduled at a later date for family and friends. Donations to a memorial and/or scholarship in Doug's name can be made to https://givetoindianastate.org/, under "Designation," click "Other." Then, type in "Doug Timmons" in the box.