Douglas E. Whitford

Douglas E. Whitford, age 73, of Dayton, Ohio, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026. He was born in Dayton on January 20, 1953, to the late Carl and Beatrice Whitford.

Doug proudly served his country as a Navy salvage diver for one tour of duty, demonstrating the courage and determination that defined his life. After his service, he became a valued member of the Clark County Underwater Recovery Team, continuing his dedication to helping others. Doug was also a longtime member of the Dayton Dirt Riders, where he found great joy in hitting the trails with his family and friends.

Doug’s greatest love, however, was his family. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Carol Whitford; daughter Laura Whitford Poore and her husband Nathan Poore; son Zachariah Whitford; and beloved grandsons Lucas and Oliver Whitford. He is also survived by his brothers Bob Merritt (Bev), Ron Merritt (Shelia), and Roger Whitford (Reeta); as well as nieces and nephews Shannon Merritt, Brandon Whitford, Miranda Merritt, Alex Merritt, Lauren Hodges and Mitch Baker.

He was preceded in death by his parents Beatrice and Carl Whitford, and his stepmother Gloria Whitford.

Doug will be remembered for his loving and carefree spirit - a man who truly never met a stranger. His laughter, kindness, and love for life brightened every room he entered. Whether he was riding dirt bikes, sharing stories with friends, listening to Pink Floyd or spending time with his family, Doug lived every day to the fullest and encouraged others to do the same.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The Whitford family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Dayton for their compassionate care and support during Doug’s final days.

Visitation will be held from 12:30-1:30 pm on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at Newcomer Funeral Home, North Chapel, 4104 Needmore Road, where the funeral service will begin at 1:30 pm. Burial and military honors will follow at Dayton Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Doug's memory to Hospice of Dayton. 

To share a memory of Doug or to leave his family a special message, please sign the online guestbook provided.  

Doug's funeral will be live streamed at the scheduled service time.  See link below.