Douglas Heath passed away last week. He was 63. Doug was the editor here at the San Antonio Observer and also a long time radio host on KROV FM. Some better knew him as ‘Dr. Doug’ or the community ‘bridge-builder’ as he forged unimaginable relationships in all aspects of his life.
The community received this devastating news that brought everyone together to ensure that Dr. Doug was honored for the righteous, genuine humble man he was. We received many community memories of Dr. Doug over the past few days. He was enormously loved and deeply missed by so many. Read more below of the life and memory of Dr. Doug Heath.
If you would like to leave a memory you have of Dr. Doug we invite you to leave a comment.
‘..a true advocate for the people…’
Dear Doug,
Your San Antonio Observer family, along with our community and especially your friends and Carolyn and Jeremy, are missing you deeply. You came into our family bringing so much joy, hope, and leadership. We cannot count the ways you will be missed. We will strive to meet and exceed your expectations of us each and every day. Thank you for teaching and leading us. You will be forever remembered as your life is etched into this earth through all of those you touched and taught.
Love,
Your Observer Family
“Doug Heath was an advocate for the people. As managing Editor of the San Antonio Observer Doug’s sole focus was to educate and uplift in each weekly edition and he advocated for the people in the highest offices of Government in San Antonio, Texas. He gave straight no-nonsense advice to the Mayor, City Councilman and Business owners.
I often called Doug for advice and after each phone call I felt like I had been blessed with a powerful pep talk. Doug, your body was tired so you’re taking a well deserved rest so Rest In Peace my friend, until we meet again.”
– Lisa Jackson, CEO LJPMedia
“As I think of Doug Heath, the words are multitalented, multifaceted, brilliant, a great community leader, a great husband, and a father. I’ve known Doug for over a decade and he’s worn many hats. I’ve watched him lead business organizations, serve in a governmental relations capacity for major corporations, write columns for newspapers and blogs, and host radio shows. I’ve observed how he juggled life and all of his life’s responsibilities with poise and grace.
May God watch over his wife and son; along with family and friends.”
– Laura Thompson, CEO TAANTV
-“You Can’t Fix What you Refuse to Talk About- Where Does Racism Happen?”
-“Our Work is not Done- The Fight for Justice”
Powerful words from Doug Heath.
“Doug has inspired me to always be and pursue my best. I can only quote him in order to truly express my sincerest condolences to his family.
Doug has served in a mighty way. Thru all of his pain and long-suffering, he was there! Now he can rest and know his life and legacy will impact generations to come! Thank you for sharing your life and leadership with the community!”
– Renee Watson, BBA, MPA, ECMCA | Director Small Business & Entrepreneurship Department Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Liaison Officer
“Dr. Doug has long been a major piece of the puzzle we call the San Antonio business community.”
– Carl Booker, CEO Avista Products
“The San Antonio African American Community Archive and Museum mourns the loss of Doug Heath, editor for the San Antonio Observer. As a distinctive voice of the community, Mr. Heath’s voice will be missed. We look forward to working with the new editor of the Observer and writing our collective stories for years to come.”
– Deborah Omowale Jarmon, CEO SAAACAM
“Doug Heath was unbiased. Gave a kid from the Eastside who made a mistake a voice to tell my story when everyone hesitated to. He stood by my vision and believed in the work I’m doing for the city of San Antonio. Doug I thank you tremendously and your monumental presence is missed.”
– Executive Chef Milas Williams, CEO World LOLEI Incorporation
“Our hearts are saddened to learn of the passing of Doug Heath. He was a fierce advocate, a humble leader, and a quality friend who never hesitated to serve our community. Through his work as editor at the San Antonio Observer and at KROV-FM, he made it his mission to represent all of us through his work. Doug’s love for the community was evident. I will fondly remember the conversations we had shared, typically brainstorming sessions about how we could collaborate together for the betterment of our District. We will continue to honor his vision though we had made merely a dent in the potential of our collaboration. We will also miss his wit and the wisdom that he effortlessly shared. To Doug’s family, friends and coworkers please accept our deepest condolences. This is a tremendous loss to our community.”
– Jalen McKee Rodriquez, District 2 Councilman San Antonio, Texas
