Douglas Emerson was born September 25, 1952 to Dora May Angle & Douglas Emerson, Sr. He passed away Sunday, October 12, 2025 in his home with his family and dogs.

Interment: 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, October 21, 2025, DFW National Cemetery

In lieu of flowers, his family asks that donations be made to the DFW National Cemetery in his honor.

(https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/dallasftworth.asp)

During his adolescence, Doug developed a keen interest in self-defense and Karate. He committed himself to training and earned his black belt in 1971 with instructor Grandmaster Chuck Loven. Doug enjoyed his martial arts journey which took him around the world for many tournaments and competitions, where he often took the gold. This was just the beginning of his long list of accolades. Most importantly, he gained a strong sense of discipline and passion for hard work throughout his martial arts career. Doug's many achievements as a black belt led him to expect greatness from himself and others for the rest of his life.

Doug proudly marched to the beat of his own drum, and it was a beat unheard by anyone. His early departure from Richland High School and decision to join the United States Marine Corps became one of his next major achievements. Doug was a very proud Marine and distinguished Rifle Sharpshooter. After serving honorably in the USMC, Doug went on to manage karate studios and later worked in the casino industry at the MGM as a blackjack and roulette dealer. He earned his B.A. in Criminal Justice from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 1985 and his Juris Doctor (JD) from California Western School of Law in 1987, beginning his lifelong legal career. He was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 1988 and worked at a civil litigation firm for several years before establishing the Law Office of Douglas T. Emerson, where he served clients continuously for more than 30 years.

Those who knew him understood that he valued loyalty and honesty above all else. He had little patience for pretense, but those who earned his trust found a true friend.  He was known for his uncompromising standards and a plain-spoken approach to both the law and life. While not one for small talk, Doug believed in loyalty, hard work, and keeping one's word—qualities that defined him far more than any public praise ever could. His presence will be missed, but his principles and the impact he made on those around him will endure. Those who worked alongside him understood that his high expectations came from a deep sense of responsibility and pride in doing things the right way. Doug's legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the lessons he imparted to those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Outside his legal practice, Doug remained devoted to his lifelong interests in karate, motorcycles, and firearms training. In addition to his lifetime membership in the National Rifle Association, Doug continued to pursue greatness in martial arts. He was promoted to Grandmaster as a 9th degree black belt by GM J. Pat Burleson in 2015 and later inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame, the Masters Hall of Fame, and the International Black Belt Hall of Fame.

Doug Emerson is survived by his wife and best friend, Charlotte Emerson; his daughter, Angela Emerson, who was his greatest pride; son-in-law, Jeffrey McDole and many lifelong friends; his loyal dogs, Sasha and Bailey, were constant companions who brought him comfort and happiness even in his final moments.

Doug lived his life to the fullest. His presence impacted so many people and his legacy of success will live on forever.