Ronald Douglas

Beloved Ronald Albert Douglas, also known as Ron, Ronnie, father/poppy,
husband, son, uncle, grandfather, and friend, died Saturday, August 2, 2025, at the
University of Vermont Medical Center from injuries sustained in an automobile
accident. He was 77 years young.

Ronald was born August 10, 1947, in Rutland, the son of Clifford George and
Amelia Jean (Amoriello) Douglas.

He had two lovely marriages. The first began in Palo Alto, California, with Robbie
Kristi VanHoute in June 1969, and they brought three beautiful children into the
world. The second was in Vancouver, Washington, on June 02, 1985, with Debra
Douglas, the love of his life for 40 years, and enjoyed two boys who loved him like
a father.

Ron was a graduate of Rochester High School, class of 1966. He furthered his
education at Clark College in Vancouver, Washington, and most recently at the
Community College of Vermont in Rutland, Vermont, for an associate’s degree in
Social Work/Substance Abuse.

He is a United States Navy Veteran who served during the Vietnam War for four
years and was honorably discharged in 1970.

The Christian faith played a significant role in Ron’s life. His connection with Lord
Jesus Christ was strong and guided him through this lovely world.

Ronald honed his skills for decades as a Master Carpenter and Journeyman.
His true passion was music, starting at a young age. From his school marching
band to his high school music group, Ron sharpened his expertise as a singer and drummer. The Rocketones was his premier band in high school. Later, he joined Jimmy T and the Cobras, where he played drums. Ron’s love for country music guided him to Country Western bands throughout his life. He loved karaoke and marched and drummed in the Fort Vancouver Pipe Band, where he represented
the Douglas Clan crest and tartan from his Scottish heritage. Most recently, he played bass at the Fiddler’s Gatherings in Middlebury, Vermont.

Ron is survived by his wife Debra Douglas, by his three children, LakshmiGrace
Phoenix, aka Mary Elizabeth Douglas (Wolf Phoenix), Jonah Douglas, and Matthew
Douglas, and by his step-children Jeffrey Fowler (Teresa) and Justin Hawes.
Also living are Ron’s grandchildren, Olivia and Sophia Douglas, daughters of Jonah
Douglas, as well as Kaiden, Kellen, Cassius, and Malik, sons of Justin Hawes.
Ron is also survived by his niece and nephews: Michelle Chamberlain (Todd) and
their two children, Grace and AJ; Michael Douglas (Heather) and their daughters
Madison and McKenzie; Matthew David Douglas and his two children, Vincent and
Eliza. Still alive also is Ron’s cousin, AnneMarie Kebschull (Kurt), and their son Eric.
His mother-in-law, Ellen Hawes, his brother-in-law, Billy Langley (Debra), and their
child, William are also living, as well as his beloved pet Josie.

He is predeceased by his parents, Clifford (2004) and Amelia (1990) Douglas, and
Ron’s siblings, Stephen Michael (1955) and Clifford Joseph Douglas (2025).

Ron’s friendly face and kind, loving heart will be remembered by all who knew
him. He was a deeply accepting person and shared so much unconditional love.
His beautiful voice, music, loving heart, and warm hugs will stay in our hearts
forever. Love you Ronnie Dee!

Below are sentiments from a few of Ron’s friends:
★ “Ron’s laughter and love for people lit up any space. I feel blessed to have
known him.” ~Alina S.
★ “He was a gem of a man and will be missed.” ~Tammy W.
★ “He was such an addition to the band. The best drummer ever and such a
fine man.” ~Linda A.

★ “Ron was a good friend and a fine man, the kind of guy I think of as a
genuine American. He was funny, he sang with his heart, a fine musician,
and he was a handsome old dog too.” ~Rob G.
★ “Ron was a supportive and encouraging person. He was the largest
advocate for music, especially for drumming. He shared music with youth
and knew how important sharing music with young people was to grow
community and live music. We should all keep that support going.” ~Jake C.
★ “Ron was a great guy; he always put a smile on my face.” ~Hope F.
★ “What an amazing man!” ~Desiree M.
★ “Ron was a great guy and one hell of a player.” ~Shawn H.
★ “Ron Douglas was a great person on so many levels.” ~Joseph L.
★ “Ron was an amazing man who cared for everyone. I enjoyed working with
him and shared some good laughs.” ~Devin P.
★ “Ron was a wonderful drummer, lead singer, harmonizing singer, and friend
to all. He will be greatly missed.” ~Larry H.
★ “Ron was always ready for a chat and a good joke.” ~Tom D.
★ “What a great guy. He always came into the office singing and giving hugs.
He was well respected on job sites, and man, could he sing and play drums.”
~Mary D.
★ “Ron was one of those people who made everyone feel at ease and as
though they’d always had a friend in him.” ~Janine S.
★ “Ron was a very special man. He may be gone, but never forgotten.” ~Sally B.
★ “I am amazed at all the heartfelt comments! It speaks volumes on the kind
of man he was. I don’t think I have ever seen so many comments. He
touched so many lives in such a positive way. I’m proud and thankful to be
one of them.” ~Larry M.

Read more friendly comments or add to the conversation, visit Ron’s Facebook
page to join the online celebration: https://www.facebook.com/ron.douglas1

Join the in-person celebration and visiting hours. They will be held on Friday,
August 15, 2025, from 5 P.M. to 7 P.M. at the Clifford Funeral Home, located at 2
Washington Street, Rutland, VT.

In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to further Ron’s passion
for supporting musical opportunities for children at these two organizations.
Save the Music: https://www.savethemusic.org/
All Kids Need Music: https://allkidsneedmusic.academy/

When I am down and my soul, so weary
When troubles come and my heart burdened be
Then I am still and wait here in the silence
Until You come and sit awhile with me

You raise me up so I can stand on mountains
You raise me up to walk on stormy seas
I am strong when I am on Your shoulders
You raise me up to more than I can be

Arrangements are under the direction of the Clifford Funeral Home. Online
condolences at www.cliffordfuneralhome.com