Robert L. Douglas, Jr.

Robert “Bobby” Lealon Douglas, Jr., 93, of West Columbia, South Carolina, passed away on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. He was born on December 31, 1932, in West Columbia (formerly New Brookland), South Carolina.

Bobby graduated from Brookland-Cayce High School in 1952. He was a member of the high school baseball team, Dutch Fork League, and was scouted by the Brooklyn Dodgers. He attended USC and the West Columbia Trade School.

Bobby met his wife of 69 years, Sally, at Tyler Skating Rink in West Columbia. They continued to roller skate and taught both of their boys how to skate throughout their lives together.

Bobby was Director of Maintenance at the Columbia Metropolitan Airport where he was responsible for all electrical and runway lighting systems. After 28 years of service at CAE, he retired and took a position as an airfield construction inspector with Lott, Parrish and Associates for almost two years. Because Bobby loved to stay active and loved church service, he went on to work for 24 years at Shandon United Methodist Church, as Building Supervisor.

Bobby was an active member of Springdale Baptist Church for over 65 years. He served faithfully as a Deacon, Sunday School Superintendent and on various committees. However, his heart was for children and youth ministries. Bobby and Sally worked in many areas of children’s ministries, including VBS, after school Bible Club and hosted parties for the children and the youth of Springdale Baptist Church at their home.

Bobby was the kind of man who would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. He was a living example of Matthew 25:23, “Well done, good and faithful servant!”

Bobby is survived by his wife, Sally Porter Douglas of West Columbia; two sons, Rocky Douglas (Lynne) of Lexington, Steven Douglas (Alice) of Prosperity; grandson, Brock Douglas of Charleston; granddaughter, Bethany Proffitt (Ben) of Ridgeville; great-grandson, Jack Douglas; great-granddaughter, Eden Proffitt; brother, David Douglas (Pat), baby sister, Rachel Hill and numerous nieces and nephews. Bobby is predeceased by his parents, Robbie and Sophie Douglas; sisters, Ann Raines, Vadis Powell, and Priscilla Lynn.

Services to celebrate Bobby’s life will be held at Springdale Baptist Church, 357 Wattling Road, West Columbia, as follows:

1:00 PM Family will receive friends

2:00 PM Celebration of life with burial to follow at Celestial Memorial Gardens

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Springdale Baptist Church’s children and youth ministries.

The family would like to express their deep gratitude to the staff and caregivers at Colonial Gardens Memory Care, Your Health Primary Care, and Your Health Hospice for their wonderful support and compassion.