I was sadden to learn of the death of Judge Doug Meyer. Judge Meyer retired from the Criminal Court bench here in 2006. Prior to that he had been the Chattanooga city judge for several years.
As a young attorney I tried many cases in front of Judge Meyer. Also while I was awaiting my case to be tried, I would observe him on the bench. Judge Meyer would always listen to both sides. He was fair and compassionate to all litigants.
Later on when I became judge, I tried to emulate many of the traits I had seen and learned from Judge Meyer.
After his retirement Doug and his wife Carol moved to Daytona Beach and then when he had failing health they moved to Nashville to be close to their son Rob, who is an attorney there.
I'm fortunate in that the last two times I saw Doug were on great occasions. First, was his final day in his courtroom when he was surrounded by his staff, friends and attorneys who were wishing him well and thanking him for the job he had done.
Next, I visited with him and Carol and I got to see the beautiful view that they had from their condo overlooking Daytona Beach and the Atlantic Ocean. Doug told me then that he enjoyed watching the seagulls and also watching families having fun swimming in the ocean. On those days he was very happy and that is how I like to remember him.
Doug Meyer lived a full life, helping many and having a wonderful family.
Russell Bean
City Judge