James "Doug" Campbell

James Douglas “Doug” Campbell, was born on September 21, 1937, to Maude Evans in Pocahontas County, West Virginia. He was adopted a short time later by Joseph and Ester Campbell, who raised him as their own.

At just 17 years old, Doug began a 23-year career in the United States Navy. During his years of service, he served as a Navy SEAL and completed three tours in Vietnam, dedicating much of his young adult life to serving his country. After retiring from the Navy, Doug began his second career in the oilfield working as an Engineer in wireline operations.

Doug lived a life that was anything but ordinary. He loved adventure, loved people, and—perhaps most of all—loved the ladies. He was married several times throughout his life, including to Dorothy with whom he had his son Douglas and later, his beloved wife Joan Campbell, who preceded him in death.

Doug was a natural storyteller. He had a vivid imagination and a talent for telling grand, colorful stories that could leave you laughing, shaking your head, or wondering, “Did that really happen?” Whether every detail was fact or embellished along the way, Doug had a way of making every story memorable. His stories were as much a part of him as his adventurous spirit, and those who knew him will undoubtedly continue telling his stories for years to come.

One thing about Doug that was never in question was his love for animals. He loved all creatures, great and small, and animals seemed to love him right back. He had a special way with them and found genuine joy in their company. One of his most beloved companions was his Chihuahua, Itsy, whom he adored. In true Chihuahua fashion, Itsy was so evil that she somehow managed to live for 20 years—and Doug loved her every minute of it.

Doug was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan Campbell, his parents, Maude Evans and Joseph and Ester Campbell and his brothers, Chuck Trainer, Ron Evans, and Sam Barlow.

He is survived by his sister, Nancy Mosley, the last surviving member of his siblings; his son, Douglas Campbell and his wife, Nina; bonus daughters Vicky Green and Dana Taravella and her husband, Joe; grandchildren Jaigen, Abby, Rebel, Megan, Amber, Joe Taravella IV and his wife, Ashley, Jodie Chambers and her husband, Landon, Marshall Perry and Barrett Green ; and great-grandchildren Aria, Bailey, and Joe V.

Doug lived a long and colorful life, filled with military service, family, and more stories than anyone could possibly count. He was one of a kind, and he will be deeply missed by those who loved him. “Doug” Campbell died peacefully on October 3, 2026, at the age of 89.