Memorial service set for Pastor Doug

September 26, 2011

Family and friends are organizing a public memorial service to honor a local man who lived longer with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) than anyone else in the entire country.

Doug Carroll, 54, of San Luis Obispo, known to many simply as “Pastor Doug,” died in the early morning hours on Wednesday, Sept. 21. at Bayside Convalescent Home in Morro Bay.

His memorial service has been scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 30th at 1 p.m. at the Benedict-Rettey Mortuary in Morro Bay. Retired naval chaplain Bill Huston will officiate.

Carroll, who was first diagnosed with the most aggressive form of MS in 1999, turned his medical condition  into a platform to champion disabled causes, lobbying government officials in both Sacramento and Washington. The former youth pastor was recognized by Cong. Lois Capps for his efforts in 2007.

Carroll also organized the annual “Lost at Sea” celebration, held for the last 11 years on Memorial Day at the Cayucos Pier.

Having MS forced the Tulare native to retire from his work as a youth pastor and youth adventure therapist. After graduating from college, Carroll served as a missionary for two years in the African nation of Ghana.