Douglas Southern

Douglas Southern, 69, of Columbus, Indiana, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, September 5, 2026.
Doug was born November 2, 1956, in Columbus, Indiana, to Noble and Virginia (Wood) Southern. He was one of five children and graduated from Hauser High School in Hope, Indiana.
Doug was a hardworking man who dedicated 56 years to the construction business. He began working for his father and eventually became the owner of Doug Southern and Associates, retiring in 2021. He was a man of many talents and was happiest working with his hands, whether drawing houses and landscapes, working on projects, or racing sprint cars and go-karts.
Doug had a kind and gentle soul and a special way of showing people he loved them. He enjoyed leaving little handwritten notes for family and friends to find, simply to remind them he was thinking of them. He was also a thoughtful gift giver who loved making others happy, from taking his family on Disney trips to giving little surprises just because.
He loved classic rock, especially Guns N’ Roses, John Mellencamp, and Alice Cooper, and enjoyed sharing his music with his daughters and grandchildren. He also loved old comedy movies, family time, and animals, especially cats.
Nothing brought Doug greater joy than being a “Pappy”. He adored his grandchildren, and his eldest granddaughter, Ashlynn, held an especially precious place in his heart. Being a grandpa was one of the greatest joys of his life.
Doug is preceded in death by his parents, Noble Southern Jr. and Virginia (Wood) Southern; sisters Becky Southern and Wina Owens; and brother-in-law Bob Owens.
He is survived by his loving wife, Stacy Southern (Stott); daughters Whitney Wood (James) and Jennifer Louden (Greg); grandchildren Ashlynn Dunham, Allorah Purtlebaugh, Delylah Bailey, Damienne Bailey, and Brielle Wood; and siblings Roger Southern and Dorothy Southern.
Doug will be remembered for his gentle heart, hardworking hands, thoughtful ways, and unconditional love for his family. His greatest legacy will be the love he gave and the memories he leaves behind. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.