Douglas Armstead Shively, affectionately known to nearly everyone as “Granddad,” entered his eternal home with Jesus on March 13th at the age of 88. Born March 18, 1937, in Lexington, Kentucky, Doug lived a life marked by humility, service, and steadfast faith.
The brother of Susie Havens and the son of Ruth Higgins and Bernie Armstead Shively. Bernie, the longtime athletic director at the University of Kentucky. Doug grew up with a deep love for sports and later lettered in both football and baseball at the University of Kentucky. He started his coaching career in high school, then in college, followed by 19 seasons in the NFL and one year as the head coach of the Arizona Wranglers (USFL). Yet his greatest joy came in retirement, when he returned to what mattered most, pouring into young people. In Towns County and Hayesville, NC, he spent his later years coaching boys and girls in elementary and middle school, becoming a beloved mentor throughout those communities. To them, he wasn’t famous—he was simply Granddad. Doug also loved spending time on the golf course with his retired buddies.
He was a faithful member of McConnell Baptist Church, where he worshiped, served, and lived out his quiet, unwavering trust in the Lord. Including serving his community through delivering Meals on Wheels. His life reflected Micah 6:8: “To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.”
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patsy, and their daughter, Kelly Shively. We celebrate that he is now reunited with them.
Doug is survived by his two sons: Chip Shively (wife Janet) of Hiawassee and David Shively (wife Michele) of Dawsonville.
He was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren:Jonathan (wife Kayla), Blake Shively (wife Autumn), Austin Shively (wife Anna), Brooke Shively, Katie Boyer (husband Andy), McKay Whitmire (husband Levi), and Lauren Shively.
He is also lovingly remembered by his six great grandchildren: Elly, Lucy, Maverick, Bowie, Lainey, and Jace.
A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, March 21st , at 11 a.m. at McConnell Baptist Church, Hiawassee, GA. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Doug’s honor.
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