John Douglas Love, Jr., 74, was born in Chattanooga on September 23,1948. Doug resided in South Pittsburg until the age of six. His family moved to Hixson, where he grew up and graduated from Hixson High School in 1966. He was a star athlete. Doug then went to work as a Merchant Marine on an oil ship for Sunoco in Marcus Hook, Pa. In 1969 Doug was drafted and proudly served a tour of duty in Vietnam. While in Vietnam, he was attached to the U. S. Army, 101st Airborne Division, “Screaming Eagles.” Doug was injured in combat and discharged in late 1971. He received many medals throughout that time, which he never shared with anyone. He was a member of the Laborer's International Union Local 846.
Doug had a remarkable wit about him. If you ever met him, you would never forget him. He loved South Pittsburg Pirate football, the New York Yankees and his mama’s cooking. There was no one who could beat him at Jeopardy. Doug had a large group of friends that he cared for dearly, especially recently his sweet Sue. But his greatest joy came from his daughter, Kate. She cared for him til the end of his journey. He was very grateful and proud that she was his daughter.
On June 1, 2023, Doug passed away from this life with Kate and Brenda by his side.
He is preceded in death by his parents J.D., Sr. and Martha Bates Love and his beloved cat, Butch.
He is survived by his devoted daughter, Kate, Brenda Love-Conway and Cecil D. Conway, Jr., who cared for Doug deeply. He is also survived by his special Aunt Mary “Bo” deKnoblough and his cousins, Jeannie deKnoblough Butler (Tim), Tina deKnoblough Mitchell (William) and Dennis deKnoblough.
The battle is over. The race is won. You made it to the finish line, bud.
Services have been entrusted to Companion Funeral and Cremation Service, Cleveland Chapel. A memorial service with military honors will be held at the Chattanooga National Cemetery on Friday, June 9 at 12:30 p.m., gate time 12:15 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the South Pittsburg Football Team in memory of the Love family, 727 Elm Ave., South Pittsburg, Tn. 37380.