Douglas Rae Obituary | Northwood Funeral Home & Crematory LLC

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Douglas Rae

April 23rd, 1930 - September 15th, 2021

April 23rd, 1930 - September 15th, 2021

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Doulas Rae, 91,  of West Palm Beach, the well known, and well respected, literary agent of stage and screen, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2021. Douglas was born William George Douglas Rae, the second sibling of parents James and Marie Rae, in Ayrshire, Scotland, where he grew up and attended school. After leaving school, Douglas studied Drama at Perth Repertory Company in Scotland, and also completed his National service in the Royal Airforce before moving to London to follow his acting career. Although Douglas did have some success with this, he changed tack and founded a successful theatrical agency with many famous names on his books. He was well known within the "London Scene" with many theatricals such as George Lazenby and David Knight amongst his closest friends. He also enjoyed travel and spent time in  many of the hotspots of the time, such as Ibiza and the Greek Islands, long before they were discovered by the masses. Later, Douglas became involved in publishing, and founded his own publishing company. As a literary agent in London and New York, he represented the foremost writers of theatre of the time. A native of Scotland, based in London, he never needed to learn to drive. One of his favorite tales was when he was sent to Los Angeles to broker a contract between his client and a major film studio. Walking from his hotel to the studio, he was stopped by LAPD for “walking.” After explaining his situation, the police promptly delivered him to the meeting. Douglas's parents, whilst not churchgoers, but had strong Christian values which were instilled in all their children. Douglas's dad, Jimmy, was a lifelong student of the work of "Rabbie" Burns, and this too was passed on to Douglas. This grounding was reflected in Douglas's lifelong support of, and love for, his family. And despite the miles, he was always ready with help, initially for his parents, but also younger sister, "wee dearest Ann." Over the years, Douglas stayed in contact with this sisters on a regular basis, and always inquired as to the well-being and exploits of his nephews and nieces. He was always dapper, witty, elegant, and debonair. He and his wife lived in Katonah, NY after departing NYC, and then settled in West Palm Beach in 2000. Douglas is survived by his beloved wife of over 40 years, the famed actress of stage and screen, Sally Ann Howes; a sister, Myra;  and nephews and nieces in Scotland. He was predeceased by his younger sister, Ann. He and Sally Ann loved entertaining, dining, traveling, and supporting the Arts , with particular interest in The Royal Poinciana Playhouse and Palm Beach Dramaworks. He will be greatly missed by those who enjoyed the pleasure of his company.

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