Gerald Oree McDougald, 75, of Houston, Texas, passed away June 19, 2023.  Gerald was born September 12, 1947, in Navasota, Texas, to the late Hulan Oree McDougald and Geraldine (Payne) McDougald.

Gerald ('66) attended Spring Woods High School in Houston, Texas, and excelled as a running back for the football team. As a committed, hard-working man, Gerald began his adult life upon graduation by serving in the United States Marine Corps as a Marine Sergeant, attaining a Sharpshooter designation, and eventually earning an Honorable Discharge.  Gerald then began a long, stellar career in the carpet industry, building business from the ground-up and managing high profile projects like BP, Compaq, Exxon, Chevron, the George Bush Library at Texas A&M University, and the Texas State Capitol in Austin.  For his hard work and accomplishments on accounts like these, Gerald won many industry awards and was revered among his peers.

While it took some time and much convincing by loved ones, once Gerald decided to retire in 2016, he never looked back.  His daily routine consisted of early morning coffee while sitting outside with his dogs and listening to the birds, looking at the crystal-clear water in his pool that he rligiously maintained to perfection.  He loved to be outside.  In fact, if you ever needed him, you'd most likely find Gerald tending to the pool, tinkering in the garage, or just sitting in a patio chair enjoying a cigar.

Gerald also loved to pamper his loving wife, Jean.  From fine dining to exotic trips to the Caribbean to nights out on the town for an Andrea Bocelli concert, Gerald loved experiencing all he could with Jean by his side.  He was an avid golfer, both as a pair with Jean and on his own, even scoring a rare hole-in-one on one occasion.

"Pappy," as they called him, adored his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild as well.  He thoroughly enjoyed giving them all types of fun gifts and supporting their various endeavors. As they grew up, Pappy was regularly seen coaching them out on the ball field, offering sage advice and encouragement.

Without question, Gerald was a pillar for the family.  Over the last year, he played an instrumental role in helping his children and extended family heal from tragedy.  He brought the family together, and he and Jean provided an atmosphere for everyone to safely be themselves, heal, and love each other.  Some of his biggest smiles were observed while floating in the pool, surrounded by his immediate family.  Gerald was truly happy to have everyone there together, enjoying themselves in the sun, in and around his beautiful pool.

Gerald is survived by his wife, Jean (Stamper) McDougald; son, Kevin (Jill) McDougald, daughter, Kimberly (William) Colley, son, Nicholas (Kay) DeMaio; grandchildren, Haleigh Manela, Logan McDougald, Anna Colley, Campbell Rhodes, Emerson McDougald, Nathaniel DeMaio, Miriam DeMaio; great-grandchild, Leyton Manela; and sisters Hewlett (McDougald) Whittie and Sue McDougald.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Hulan Oree McDougald and Geraldine (Payne) McDougald.

A public visitation will be held Wednesday, June 28, 2023, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Klein Funeral Home, 16131 Champion Forest Dr., Spring, Texas 77379.

The funeral service will be held Thursday, June 29, 2023, at 10:00am at Klein Funeral Home.  The family will receive visitors one hour prior to the funeral service. Interment will follow at the Houston National Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers are Kevin McDougald, Logan McDougald, William Colley, Campbell Rhodes, Nicholas DeMaio, and Sam Grubbs.