Big Stone Gap, Va.-William Douglas Shupe, 79, known to many as Doug or Inky, passed away on October 13, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of intelligence, kindness, and unwavering faith. Born on April 10, 1944, Doug's journey was marked by numerous accomplishments and a genuine dedication to helping others.
Doug's pursuit of education led him to graduate from Powell Valley High School in 1962, proudly served in the U. S. Air Force during the Vietnam era, followed by his graduation from Clinch Valley College in 1970. His passion for learning and commitment to excellence served as a foundation for his future endeavors and interests.
In the 1970s, Doug was an integral part of the award-winning Westmoreland Coal Company Mine Rescue Team. His bravery and expertise were instrumental in ensuring the safety of his fellow miners. Throughout his career, he worked diligently at Penn Virginia Resources, Southern Well Service (which he started and owned in the 1980s and 1990s), and concluded his professional journey at A&G Coal Company in 2010. Doug's dedication and professionalism were evident in all his endeavors.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Doug was a man of strong faith, embracing the principles of the Sovereign Grace belief system. His Christian values guided his actions and interactions with others. Known for his kindness, Doug lived by the Golden Rule, embodying the true meaning of compassion and empathy. He was always ready to lend a helping hand, even going as far as giving someone the shirt off his back if they were in need.
Doug's memory will be cherished by all those whose lives he touched. His intelligence, diligence, and unwavering commitment to doing what was right left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him. His passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt by his loved ones, friends, and community.
In honoring the life of William Douglas Shupe, let us remember his remarkable journey, his unwavering faith, and the kindness he extended to all. May his memory forever be a source of inspiration and may his legacy live on through the lives he touched.
Doug was preceded in death by his parents, William F. and Mamie A. (Lane) Shupe; a sister, Lois Marie Shupe; and a brother, Gary Huston Shupe.
Surviving are his wife of 55 years, Sandy Lawson Shupe; two sons, Brian Shupe (Bronwyn), Knoxville, Tn. and Patrick Shupe (Rebecca), Big Stone Gap; six grandchildren, Hunter Shupe, Alexis Shupe, Aleah Shupe, Nathaniel Shupe, Sara Shupe and Emily Shupe; sister, Jeanette Quillin, Big Stone Gap; several nieces, nephews and cousins; sister-in-law, Carolyn Wilson (Wayne); and brother-in-law, Billy Lawson (Deanie.)
The family will receive friends 5:00pm – 7:00pm on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave., W., Big Stone Gap.
Military honors by U. S. Air Force Honor Team, Shaw AFB, SC and local VFW and DAV posts, will be accorded 1:00pm Thursday, October 19, 2023, at Riverview Cemetery, East Stone Gap, Va. Pastor Enos Gingrich will follow with words of comfort. Family and friends will meet at the funeral home by 12:20pm Thursday to go in procession to the cemetery
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Shupe family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral Facebook page.