Doug was born in Madisonville, Kentucky. His father was a coal miner and a farmer. In 1963, Doug's family moved to Key Largo, Florida after his father had a farming accident and broke his neck in two places and needed a warmer climate. Doug grew up helping his father in commercial fishing and he began working in a fish house full time when he was just 12 years old.
When he was eight years old, Doug acceted Jesus as his Savior at Vacation Bible School at the First Baptist Church in Key Largo.
In 1987, he met and married his wife Joli.
Doug had been married before and had twin sons, and together, he and Joli had a son and two daughters.
In 1993, Doug and Joli attended the Miami Preganancy Care Center Banquet and heard the testimony of Gianna Jessen. She was just 13 years old and she sang and shared her testimony. She had been aborted and she did not die. It was then that Doug knew he would be in a pro life ministry. He had been a "pro choice" Christian, but God touched his heart through the testimony of Gianna, and the Lord transformed Doug to be a 100% pro life.
In 2001 they Doug surrendered to go to Bible college in Pineville, KY. With their three children in tow, they sold thier home, their business and set out to follow God's Call.
In 2005, Doug graduated from Clear Creek Baptist Bible College with his bachelors degree in pastoral care, and the family began Choose Life Ministries.
Doug preaches to all ages in the main services. Joli shares with the children. Their son traveled with them at first and spoke to the youth. Their daughter, Caitlyn, would sign a song in every service as she had a call on her life to reach the Deaf. Their youngest daughter, Crystal, would help wherever she was needed.
Choose Life Ministries began as a family ministry and now Doug and Joli continue to travel and share everywhere God opens the door.
