Jeffrey Ryan “Jeff” Douglass, 47, passed away unexpectedly at his home on January 17, 2026, due to a medical emergency following surgery. He was born on March 14, 1978, to Joel and Jeri Douglass of Martell, Nebraska, though many who knew him swear he arrived already an old soul equipped with a big heart, a sharp wit, and a memory like an elephant—never forgetting a birthday, an anniversary, or a good story.
Jeff grew up on the family farm, where he learned the virtues of loyalty, hard work, and showing up for people—although he never showed up early unless absolutely necessary. As a proud third-generation farmer, he understood the land in a way that felt almost instinctive. He embraced the rhythm of the seasons, shared the stubborn personality of machinery, and cherished the deeply rooted gratification that only comes from doing work with your hands and heart.
A graduate of Crete High School and Southeast Community College in Beatrice, Jeff was easygoing, big-hearted, and the very definition of dependable. He had a unique ability to sense when someone needed him and would appear, quietly, without being asked…exactly where he was needed. He was thoughtful, deeply sentimental, and so much like his grandfather and mentor Paul that the comparison became a family refrain.
Jeff also had a wicked sense of humor, legendary sarcasm, and a laugh that took over his whole face when he got truly tickled. He was always game for shenanigans, whether that meant a spontaneous trip, a late-night adventure, or anything involving music.
Jeff loved life, and he loved living it with people. He cherished dancing, especially when a good live band filled the room. He never passed up a game night with friends, where his competitive streak and glorious grin made regular appearances. More than anything, he loved traveling with the love of his life, Jenine Owens—his partner in laughter, adventure, and every zipline they could find.
Together, Jeff and Jenine explored Playa del Carmen; Cancun; Cozumel; Orlando, FL; Sedona and Scottsdale, AZ; North Carolina; the Dominican Republic; Palm Springs, CA; Las Vegas, NV; and the list goes on. He loved to travel with additional friends and family to places like Puerto Vallarta; Colorado; Jamaica; Mammoth Mountain (his happy place for skiing); Hermann, MO; Arkansas; Port Lavaca, TX; and Wendover, NV. His bucket list still held Ireland, Hawaii, Greece, skydiving, and retiring as a sun-chasing snowbird in Arizona with Jenine.
He remained loyal to the things and people he loved: trucks and truckers, the farm, his dog Bandit, his family, and the countless friends who knew he was always ready to lend a hand.
He was thrifty in the most practical ways, trustworthy in all ways, and sentimental in quietly powerful ways. He was a connoisseur of bargains and an unapologetic champion of the “reuse and recycle” lifestyle. His beloved mom was the only person who ever cut his hair, a tradition he held onto proudly.
Jeff was a devoted son, loyal brother, loving friend, and faithful partner. He wasn’t one for grand speeches, but those closest to him never doubted his love; he showed it through presence, action, and an unwavering willingness to show up when it mattered.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents Paul Douglass, Vera Douglass, Jean Douglass, Glen Taylor, and Erma Taylor.
He is survived by his parents Joel and Jeri Douglass; his son Reece Douglass; his older brother David Douglass (Anna) and their children Fletcher, Charlie, and Willa; his younger sister Erin Farnsworth (Tyler) and their children Theodore and Lennon; his beloved girlfriend Jenine; and many extended family members and friends whose lives he touched deeply.
A celebration of Jeff’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on January 22, 2026, at Martell United Methodist Church, 2700 West Martell Road, Martell, Nebraska.
Jeff leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, loyalty, adventure, and kindness—proof that a life doesn’t have to be long to be beautifully and fully lived.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be sent to the family, who will oversee their distribution at a later date. Condolences may be left at trumpmemorials.com. Trump Funeral Services, 1600 West “O” Street, Lincoln.
We are so very sad for all of you. Jeff was a hard working guy and will be missed by so many. Special hugs to his very precious mom, sister and brother.
So sorry to learn about the loss of your son. Our sympathy goes out to you and the family.Hold on to your memories of Jeff in this time of sadness.May angels walk with you today and always.
I love you, Jeff. You would follow me across the world if I asked you to and we had great plans for the future. We had many great memories tailgating, game nights with friends, supper with friends, movies, watching sports, and many new experiences. I always looked forward to the wonderful plans you made for Valentine’s Day and our anniversary. Love you!
Jeff was a good friend, former neighbor and patron at our bar when we lived in Waverly. One memory I have of him, although there are many, is that he and I would sing, “Islands in the stream” for karaoke night together at our bar. I also remember when my ex-husband and I moved to Beatrice, he and his girlfriend at the time stopped by unexpectedly to see us. We sat and drank some beer on our deck and had a great conversation together. My sympathies to his family, girlfriend and anyone else who knew him. I’m only sad that I found out too late to attend this memorial service. Definitely an old soul gone too soon. Rest in peace my friend.
Jenine, I am so sorry to hear this sad news. You are such a nice person who deserves such happiness. Hugs to you friend.
I am so sorry to hear about Jeff. I hope the memories you have of Jeff give you comfort during this sad time. I’m praying for you and your family
I am so sorry to hear this. So sad. Such a nice young man taken too soon
Sending hugs and prayers.
Was so sorry to see that Jeff had passed away. Heartfelt thoughts to all of his family.
My sincerest condolences. Sending thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
I met Jeff through mutual friends and enjoyed many football parties, 4th of Julys, an occasional casino trip. He was always fun to be around and an all around great guy. I send my deepest sympathies to his family and friends. He will be greatly missed.
Jeff was a cool dude. I got to know him through jenine these past years. Amazing to think we had a Saran Wrap fight Christmas Eve and laughed our asses off. WAY TOO YOUNG
my thoughts and prayers are with jeffs family—-your friends and family are there and so are all who knew him and his family—-joel my sympathey and prayers are for you and your family
Joel & Jeri, We want to offer our condolucies for the loss of your son, our prayers are with you both. A friend from cards as I remember when Joel used to come with his dad before his dad died. Did not know your son even though we have lived in Sprague for almost 50 years. Many condolucies to your family. Mary Lynn & Ken Chelton
I am deeply sorry for your great loss. May you find comfort in the love of your family and friends.
Erin and family – Please accept our deepest condolences.
We were extremely saddened to hear of Jeff’s passing so unexpectedly. It broke our hearts! Our sympathy and prayers go out to Jeff’s family and to my daughter Jenine in their sudden loss of someone so dear to them. Jeff was such a special guy! We love you and miss you, Jeff! Our family gatherings won’t be the same without you there also! Rest in God’s Peace, Jeff…..til we meet again!!
A wonderful person and an even better friend. We’ve shared memories since our high school days, and there was never a dull moment with him. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Jeri and Erin. I am so sorry to hear of your son/brother. Although I didn’t know Jeff personally he sounds like a wonderful man and I’m sure brought joy to his family and friends. I am praying for you and your families.
Joel and Jeri, I am so, so sorry to hear about the loss of your beautiful son. He sounded like just the most wonderful person.