Douglas Coy Presley

Douglas Coy Presley

June 2, 1943 – October 19, 2026

Douglas Coy Presley, known to most as Doug, passed away on October 19, 2026, at the age of 83.

Doug was born in Ukiah, California, the eldest of three sons born to Wayne and Bernice Presley. He grew up on a ranch near Boonville, where he spent his childhood hunting, fishing, and exploring the Anderson Valley with cousins and friends. Living outside of town, he roamed the countryside on foot and horseback long before he was old enough to drive. His love of horses was evident from an early age. He belonged to a riding club and was known to ride his horse to football practice.

As a boy, Doug also enjoyed time spent in Laytonville with his grandparents, Coy and Hazel Smith. Their home was a favorite destination, not only because they spoiled him, but because his cousin Ken “Bozo” Smith lived near by. If there was a mischief to be found Doug and Ken were usually at the center of it, often joined by Doug’s younger brothers, Wayne and Greg.

In 1964, Doug married Glenda Zittleman. Together they welcomed two children. Trent and Tamra, and shared many years of life together. They lived primarily in Mendocino County, with a brief period spent in Gasquet for work.

Doug’s working life reflected his strong work ethic and remarkable mechanical abilities. He began his career working in the timber industry before joining the State of California as a Heavy Equipment Operator with Caltrans. A transfer brought Doug and his young family to Laytonville in 1968, where he purchased and operated the Texaco station and repair shop. After selling the business, he drove truck for Harwood’s and Jess Gullett and later pursued a variety of entrepreneurial ventures.

Throughout the years, Doug owned a custom performance boat shop and became well known for restoring classic cars and building everything from custom hot rods to diesel trucks. He spent countless hours welding, fabricating, building engines, and bringing ambitious projects to life through skill, ingenuity, and determination. He founded Presley Trucking, provided earthmoving and excavation service, and later partnered with his cousin Ken Smith to purchase and operate the Laytonville Quarry for many years.

Doug’s passion for motorsports was another defining part of his life. From 1968 to 1974, he raced both circle track and drag cars, earning the nickname “Poosby.” With his cousin and close friends serving as his crew, Doug become known as a talented and patient driver whose competitive spirit led to many victories and unforgettable memories for family, friends, and fans alike. He also competed in NASCAR events and enjoyed considerable success. Beyond his accomplishments behind the wheel, Doug was widely respected for his ability to build, repair and improve virtually anything powered by gas or diesel, especially Chevrolets.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Bernice Presley; his brother Greg Presley; and his daughter, Tamra Presley.

He is survived by his brother, Wayne Presley; his son Trent (Sherri) Presley; his cherished grandchildren, Jessica (Peter) Godderz, Erik Presley, and Austin Presley; and his beloved great-grandchildren, Tessa and Weston Godderz, his former wife, Glenda Presley, who remained an important part of his extended family, and Judy Bowman, whose love and support brought him great happiness later in life.

Doug will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. Those who knew him will remember his big heart, tireless work ethic, generosity with both his knowledge and his time, quick wit, and unwavering willingness to help others. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the deep friendships he formed, and the countless projects, businesses, and memories he built throughout his life.

He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved by the many people whose lives he touched.