Edward Ray Dugger

Edward Ray Dugger

January 24, 1948 - November 2, 2026

Edward Ray Dugger, 78, of Middleburg, Florida, originally from Johnson City, Tennessee, passed away on November 2, 2026.

Affectionately known as Eddie Ray or Papa, Ed was a larger-than-life presence whose humor, strong opinions, fierce loyalty, and enormous heart left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know him.

A proud Lieutenant Colonel in the Army National Guard and Army Reserves, Ed also devoted much of his professional life to education, serving as a teacher and principal at the middle and high school levels. He was especially passionate about coaching, where his leadership and larger-than-life personality made an impact on many young people. Years later, former players still remember Coach Dugger and the difference he made in their lives - a testament to the legacy he leaves behind.

Outside of his professional life, Ed was an avid golfer who treasured the friendships and camaraderie that came with the game. Whether it was his regular weekly round or an extra opportunity to hit the course, golf was one of his greatest pleasures.

Ed was a man who appreciated a good plan - preferably one made in advance and followed accordingly. His familiar question, "What's the plan?" was often the starting point for any day or gathering. He liked to know what the day held and wasn't particularly fond of surprises or last-minute changes. He was equally well known for his sense of humor, which included a steady supply of questionable jokes that he often found considerably funnier than anyone else did. Those who knew him knew that life with Eddie Ray was rarely dull.

For all his strong opinions and larger-than-life personality, Ed had an equally enormous heart, especially when it came to his family. He and his wife, Linda, shared 55 years of marriage and raised two daughters, Paige and Megan, who brought him immeasurable pride. Ed was never shy about expressing his love - with big hugs, frequent "I love yous," and an endless willingness to tell anyone who would listen just how proud he was of his girls. That same love extended to his three grandsons, Tyler, Landon, and Tripp. Although miles often separated them, his pride and affection for the boys knew no distance. He cherished the time they shared and the special place he held in their lives as Papa.

Ed is survived by his wife of 55 years, Linda Lee Dugger; his daughters, Paige Schehr (Andrew) and Megan Wilson (Chris); his beloved grandsons, Tyler Schehr, Landon Schehr, and Tripp Wilson; and his nephew, Bo Dugger. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dwight and Lucille Dugger; his brother, Gregg; and his sister, Ellen.

Ed was a man of strong convictions, a quick wit, and a generous heart. He loved deeply, stood firmly by those he cared about, and lived life unmistakably on his own terms.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by those who were lucky enough to know him.

A celebration of Ed's life will be held on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Giles Presbyterian Church in Orange Park, Florida.

Burial with military honors will take place on Monday, November 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Mountain Home National Cemetery in Johnson City, Tennessee.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be considered in Ed's honor to either of the following organizations:

Safe Animal Shelter - Middleburg, Florida
https://www.safeanimalshelter.com/

Wounded Warrior Project
https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/