James Douglas "Doug" Bird, age 64, of Wellston, passed away Sunday, September 29, 2024, at his home.  He was born March 17, 1960 in Montgomery, West Virginia, son of the late James Lester Bird and Dorothy Clonch Bird.  Doug was a 1978 graduate of Pt. Pleasant High School and later received an associate's degree in cyber security and networking from Hocking Tech.  He was an employee of Merillat Industries in Jackson for 27 years.  Even though Doug came across as a stern person, he was actually a very caring man with a big heart who enjoyed having a good conversation with others.  In his spare time, he also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and working on computers for family and friends.  Doug lived for his grandchildren and loved spending time with his family, especially going on vacations to the beach.  He was a member of the West Virginia National Guard, Trinity Wesleyan Church in Oak Hill, and the Big Bear Hunting Club.  Doug is survived by his wife of almost 45 years, Judy Stapleton Bird; children, Christopher Bird (Brandy) and Felicia Bird (Ronnie Mullins); grandchildren, JJ, Adrionna "Bugs", Payton, Cody, Cayden, Cash, Hally, and Alanna; siblings, Jeff Bird (Treva), Beverly Lockhart (George), and Connie McClellan (Glenn); special friends, Dan and Sharlene Bailey; along with several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by brother, Robert Bird; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Damon and Evelyn Stapleton; and his special buddy, Gordo.  Calling hours will be Friday, October 4th, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the McWilliams Funeral Home in Wellston.  Funeral service will be Saturday, October 5th, at 11 a.m. at the McWilliams Funeral Home with Pastor Kevin Terry and George Lockhart officiating.  Burial will be in the Marcum Family Cemetery.  Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.mcwilliams-funeralhome.com.