Birth date: Aug 3, 1963 Death date: Mar 10, 2024
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William Douglas "Doug" Blevins passed away peacefully in his sleep at Johnson City Medical Center early in the morning on Sunday, March 10th, 2024 at the age of 60. He was born in Abingdon, Virginia on August 3rd, 1963 the son of Linda LaFon and Willis Blevins. Doug was born with cerebral palsy and confined to a wheelchair, but still became one of the top football kicking and punting experts in the country through determination and dedication. His life path defied all odds despite the challenges he faced which took him all the way to the National Football League. Coach Blevins was nominated for the 2013 class of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He became the NFL’s first disabled coach, joining the New York Jets’ staff in 1994. Doug continued to defy odds and has been a part of the coaching staff for the Miami Dolphins for six seasons, New England Patriots and Minnesota Vikings. He also served as the kicking coordinator for the NFL Europe League from 1995-2000. Throughout his decades-long career, he has coached and mentored professional kickers such as Adam Vinatieri, Justin Tucker, David Akers, Matt Turk, Joe Nedney and Olindo Mare. Doug Blevins attributed his success in life as well as coaching to the experiences he gained growing up in Southwest Virginia - Abingdon, VA. Growing up, Doug was very well liked among his classmates and teachers. Everyone in Abingdon gravitated towards Doug and became fast friends with him not only due to his amazing personality, but also because people enjoyed his positive mindset and his determination was so infectious. Doug was a graduate of Abingdon High School. His career would see him work with his alma mater at AHS, as well as the University of Tennessee, East Tennessee State University, and Emory & Henry College. Doug met thousands of people throughout his life, was always a friend to them even if they just met, and had a big heart for his family. He is survived by his son, Roman Blevins and wife Brooke Blevins, his daughter Sarah Blevins, his brother Greg Lafon and wife Ashley LaFon and their daughter Collins LaFon, cousin/brother Shayne Hensley, his cousin Christina Hensley Allen and her husband David Allen, his mother Linda LaFon, his father Willis Blevins and wife Carmen Blevins, his grandmother Kathleen Hensley, his uncle Michael Hensley and his wife Donna Hensley. There will not be any services held per Doug's wishes. He will be laid to rest in Whitetop, Virginia. The family thanks the public for their love, support, and stories which can be shared on social media. Condolences and stories for the family may also be sent and viewed by visiting www.garrettfuneralhome.com. Also, a register book in remembrance of Doug will be placed at Garrett Funeral Home so friends may visit at anytime between the hours of 9 am and 3 pm from Wednesday, March 13 through Friday March 15. Mr. Blevins and his family are in the care of Garrett Funeral Home, 203 N. Shady Avenue, Damascus, VA 24236; ph.#: (276) 475-3631.Read Obituary
The management and staff of The UPS Store in Abingdon, Virginia would like to express their condolences to Doug's family. We helped him with many print projects and shipping over the years. He was definitely one of a kind. He was always upbeat and always had something positive to say. He was an inspiration to so many and will be greatly missed.
Always enjoyed seeing Doug at church at Heritage Baptist. Always had a smile and a great sense of humor. He will be missed.
Lois Finley lit a candle in memory of William Blevins
We are so sorry for your loss. We always enjoyed every minute we shared with Doug at the family picnics. Such a joyful person, he will be missed. All of our love to the whole family.... Nina and Neil
So sorry to hear of Doug’s passing. Our prayers are with his family, and many friends. May God give grace and comfort. Rev David & Linda Critcher, Rustburg, VA
Doug and I became such good friends when we were six years old and I grabbed a football out of his hands and refused to give it back (eventually I did). We studied US History and Government together at his house (although I’m sure he already knew all the answers) and was going through the motions just to help me along. I was the first person that he drove around in his Pinto with the modified steeling wheel too. Just so many memories that I will always treasure until I see him again one day. It gives me peace thinking about how he is running, jumping and “precisely” kicking every object he can find. All my prayers to his wonderful family. Doug was a treasure in my life for the person he was. I will surely miss him.
Thank you Tammy, loved reading your tribute!
May God provide peace and comfort to Doug's family...Our family first met Doug in the mid 1990's when our son Alex attended one of his kicking camps...Doug continued to work with Alex through high school and into college.
At some point I remember Doug got everyone's attention and remarked as he pointed to a particular kicker/punter, "If I could walk, I would want to walk like that!"
Richard, Glenda, Richie & Alex Walls
Sheriff Blake Andis and the Members of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office would like to express their sympathy in the death of William Douglas Blevins. If our Sheriff’s Office can be of assistance to you during your time of sadness, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Sheriff Andis and Members of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office
