Resident Spotlight: Jim and Judy Douthit

Legacy Village of Jacksonville residents James “Jim” Douthit and Julia “Judy” Boozer-Douthit share more than a lifetime of memories—they share a hometown, education, and an enduring love story that began right here in Jacksonville, Alabama.



Jim was born on February 10, 1935, to Floyd and Myrtle Douthit. He grew up next door to the fire department on Church Street, alongside his four brothers—Floyd, George, Frank, and Bob. From an early age, Jim was a determined young man, graduating from Jacksonville High School in 1953. He balanced work and school, eventually earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Jacksonville State University in 1959. His patriotism called him to join the National Guard that same year, where he served with dedication for eleven years.

Judy was born the year before Jim, on August 8, 1934, to Ernest and Alberta Boozer in Williams, Alabama. Like Jim, she was raised in a lively household with four brothers—Charles, William, Ellis, Ruben—and a sister, Johnnie. Graduating from Jacksonville High School in 1952, Judy also pursued higher education, earning her Bachelor of Science from Jacksonville State and later a Master’s degree from the University of Alabama in 1963.

Their stories converged in 1964 when Judy walked into Johnston’s Furniture Store where Jim was working. It was love at first sight. Jim’s heart was captured, and the following year they married on May 29. That same year, they put down roots in Jacksonville, purchasing a home and building a life together. In a twist of fate, Jim would later become the owner of the very furniture store where their story began.

Judy devoted her career to educating young minds. She began as a 9th-grade English teacher at Jacksonville High School, then briefly taught at Anniston High School before returning to Jacksonville High. There, she expanded her impact by teaching 12th-grade Typing, Shorthand, and Accounting. Between teaching stints, Judy served as a secretary at Fort McClellan in Anniston for three years. Her dedication to education spanned over three decades, culminating in her retirement in 1991.

Together, Jim and Judy have crafted a life rich in shared milestones, community ties, and a deep commitment to the city they both call home. Their journey is a testament to enduring partnership and the simple joys of hometown love and shared dreams.