William E. Douthitt, 80, Imperial

William E. Douthitt, 80, of Imperial died April 16, 2023, at his home. Mr. Douthitt was a retired business owner. He served in the U.S. Navy, enlisting at 17 and attending boot camp in San Diego, Calif., before being stationed on the USS Delta AR9 where he worked in the engine room rated as a damage controlman. He was honorably discharged on Oct. 12, 1965. He worked as a salesman and then worked as a mechanic for Ludlow Saylor. In 1971, he and his wife bought a Phillips 66 in Affton, and in 1986, they bought AA Automotive in Arnold. They sold the Phillips 66 in 1988, and owned and operated the other business until 2002, when Mr. Douthitt retired, and their son bought it. Mr. Douthitt enjoyed spending time with friends and family, especially his sons. He also liked his animals, hunting trips and photography. He will be remembered for his knowledge. He was a member of the Meramec Arnold Elks. Born Sept. 14, 1942, in St. Louis, he was the son of the late Ralph and Wanedia (Martin) Douthitt.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years: Wanda (Kay) (Jones) Douthitt.

He is survived by two children: Rick (Mimi) Douthitt of Imperial and Randy Douthitt of Hillsboro; five grandchildren: Alyssa (Tony Thomas) Douthitt of St. Louis, Trissa (John Ambercrombie) Douthitt of Phoenix, Ariz., William Douthitt, Ken (Denise) Kuhn of Imperial and Jennifer (Ryan) Woods of Arnold; six great-grandchildren, two former children-in-law: Janet Possel and Debbie Douthitt; and many other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by two children: Michelle and Deborah Douthitt; a sibling: Wayne Douthitt; and a grandson: Rickie Douthitt.

A celebration of life will be at 4 p.m. May 5, 2023, at Meramec Arnold Elks, 1515 Miller Road, in Imperial. Private burial will be in the National Cemetery at Jefferson Barracks.