James Styles

James Douglas “Doug” Styles

James Douglas “Doug” Styles, of Rocky Top, departed his earthly home on September 20, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, love, and memories that will continue to be shared by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Doug never met a stranger. To know him was to love him. Whether you had known him for years or had only just met him, chances were he could put a smile on your face. He loved a good conversation, had a story for nearly every occasion, and possessed that special ability to make people feel as though they had known him much longer than they actually had.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Doug was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, skilled electrician, and true jack of all trades. He retired from Y-12 National security 20 years and Oak Ridge National Laboratory after a long and dedicated career and was active with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). There seemed to be very little Doug couldn’t build, repair, figure out, or, at the very least, tell a good story about.

Doug was a 1970 graduate of Coalfield School, where he played football. Coalfield remained a special part of Doug and the place he called home throughout his childhood.

Of all the titles Doug held throughout his life, however, few brought him greater joy than being a grandfather. He treasured his time with his grandchildren and loved nothing more than being surrounded by the people he loved. When he wasn’t spending time with family, he could often be found listening to music, playing guitar, enjoying a good conversation, or doing what he did best—telling stories.

Doug was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife, Patty; his parents, James and Lissie Styles; and his sisters, Darlene Templeton, Evelyn Styles, and Judy Styles.

He is survived by his three children, Kristy Bentley (Jeremy) of Powell, Joshua Styles of Chattanooga, and Katie Cardwell Husband Samuel of Andersonville; and his beloved grandchildren, Tanner Herron and Maci Godfrey of Oak Ridge; Remington (Gage)Styles of Rocky Top. Jeremiah James Hurst, Journey, Harmony and Nevaeh Cardwell, all of Andersonville.

He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews, along with countless others whose lives were made a little brighter simply because they had the privilege of knowing Doug.

The family would like to extend a special thank-you to Peyton Roath for the love, kindness, and support she gave Doug and his family.

Hatmaker Funeral Home in Rocky Top is serving the Styles family. In accordance with Doug’s wishes, no services are planned.

Perhaps the best way to honor Doug isn’t with a formal goodbye, but by remembering the way he chose to live: enjoy the music, tell the stories, have the conversation, spend time with the people you love, and never pass up an opportunity to make someone smile.

Above all, Doug’s wish for those he leaves behind is simple:

Live your life to the fullest.