Albert Douglas “Doug” Jennings

July 23, 2025
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  • Albert Douglas “Doug” Jennings, Jr., age 84, passed away peacefully on July
    15, 2025, in Aurora, Illinois after a brief battle with leukemia. In his final
    days, he was surrounded by the comfort and love of his family and amazing
    caregivers.
    Born in 1940 in Cairo, Illinois, Doug was the son of Albert Douglas Jennings
    and Emma Kerth, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death
    by his wife of 37 years, Renate, and his sister, Clare.
    He is survived by his loving wife Nancy, his sister Geri, his brother Jeff, his step-sister Judy, his
    two sons and their spouses, Todd (Sue) and Scott (Tracey), his six grandchildren, Tom, Douglas,
    Rebecca, Emily, Lauren and Ryan, and nieces and nephews, Katie, Molly, Connor and Ryan.
    Doug went to high school in Coral Gables, FL and went on to attend the University of Florida,
    participating in Air Force ROTC. He began his flying career as a United States Air Force pilot
    and was first stationed Texas. Following active duty, he transitioned to a career as a commercial
    airline pilot, flying for Trans World Airlines and Midway Airlines out of Chicago, where he
    made his home and career for over four decades. He retired from TWA in 2000 as a Captain, and
    continued to serve in the Illinois Air National Guard as a KC-135 pilot, retiring at the rank of
    Lieutenant Colonel.
    Among all the aircraft he flew, from the T-38 in Laredo to the Boeing 717 with TWA, the DC-9
    held a special place in his heart. He was reunited with this equipment as a pilot for the Columbus
    Blue Jackets NHL hockey team only a few years after his retirement from TWA.
    Those who knew Doug, or those who interacted with him briefly, will recall his gregarious
    character and general positivity. Doug was a man who never met a stranger. His warmth, smile
    and laughter left impressions on all who crossed his path. He was a devoted husband, a
    supportive brother, father and grandfather, and a proud veteran.
    His presence will be deeply missed, and his legacy will live on in the stories, laughter, and lives
    of those he touched.
    A private memorial service will be held on July 31st in Aurora. In lieu of flowers, the family asks
    that donations be made to a veterans’ organization or leukemia research charity of your choice.
    Arrangements entrusted to Cappetta’s West Suburban Funeral Home.