John Michael Doukas, Sr.

February 28, 1939 - June 10, 2026

John Michael Doukas, Sr. was born on February 28th, 1939, in Gulfport, Mississippi where he spent his life rooted in the Gulf Coast region, from the quiet familiarity of the Mississippi Gulf Coast to the vibrant rhythm of New Orleans. These places shaped him, held his memories, and became the backdrop of a life filled with grit, humor and an unshakable spirit. He was tough in all the right ways, but was also infallibly funny, with the kind of humor that came from sharp wit, perfect timing, and a lifetime of stories only he could tell. He loved his family deeply and unconditionally with fierce loyalty.

John served proudly as a Marine and later continued that commitment as a reservist, carrying the discipline and quiet strength of that service with him throughout his future endeavors. After his service, John spent time working a myriad of jobs, as an offshore welder, a Taxicab driver, an insurance agent, and an iron worker. He was a dedicated and hard-working man that spent long days aiming to provide for the people he loved. His love was shown to those he cared for by being ever present and giving more than receiving without ever asking for anything in return and always putting others first.

John loved the little things that made life feel full, watching old westerns, sneaking in a round of golf, fishing at his camp, and never turning down shrimp from Harbor View or Ben's Deli. He had a gift for harmless mischief, usually committed with his lifelong buddy, Roy Dodd, or with his grandchildren cheering him on. With opinions about everything, a stubborn streak that could outlast a hurricane, he made life feel a little bigger, a little funnier, and a lot more grounded. We'll miss the way he could turn an ordinary day into something worth remembering, but we'll carry him with us in our laughter, our strength, and every memory that still makes us smile. In hard times, the laughs and the stories are the ones he will be leaving with his friends and family to retell for years in honor of him memory.

Knowing John, he's already found a good fishing spot, a plate of shrimp, and someone patient enough to listen to the story of how he stole the carburetor off of a cop car, and not question why he was 'this close' to tacking the neighbor's driveway. And now, after all his stories and all his adventures, he's finally at peace with the Lord.

  "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."   John 14:27

John is preceded in death by his wife Janice Doukas, daughter Sabrina Doukas, mother Clara Doukas, father Stratos Doukas, and brothers: Joakim Doukas, Steve Doukas, Henry Smith, and Basil Smith. He is survived by his daughter Ann Hiestand (Jeffery), son John Michael Doukas Jr, grandchildren: Morgan Doukas, Ryan Ford, and Justin Ford (Elizabeth), and great grandchildren Beckham Ford and Cameran Savner; and many other family and friends who loved him.

Per John's wishes, a graveside service will be held at Biloxi National Cemetery on Wednesday, June 17th at 2:30 p.m. to lay him to rest and honor his memory and legacy that will continue to live on.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, will be proudly serving the Doukas family during this time.