DOUG ISENBERG: A true servant-leader

By Sam Terry
Managing Editor
Jobe Publishing, Inc.

Doug Isenberg

South-central Kentucky lost one of its notable citizens on April 3 with the death of Doug Isenberg who served our community with distinction and passion.

In his vocation as a real estate broker, appraiser, builder, and developer, Isenberg left an indelible mark on nearly every part of Barren County. Travel the highways and byways of the area known as “The Barrens” and you’ll find something he touched in some way over more than 50 years as a businessman.

To compile a complete resume of Isenberg’s involvements would be quite a task for a researcher. He was a devoted member of First United Methodist Church in Glasgow, his participation touching nearly every aspect of the congregation over his decades of membership. In the community, he shared his talents and knowledge in roles such as president of the Glasgow-Barren County Chamber of Commerce, the Glasgow Jaycees, and for 43 years a member of the Glasgow Rotary Club where he was a Paul Harris Fellow and demonstrated his dedication with tallying 31 years of perfect attendance. In service to his community and his country, Isenberg was a former member of the Glasgow City Council, a member of dozens of committees, commissions and boards, and member of the Kentucky National Guard.

Albert Schweitzer, the legendary theologian, musician, philosopher, and physician once said, “I don’t know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve.” Schweitzer could have written those very words about Doug Isenberg for he was a commendable example of embracing the notion that life might be a bit more complicated when serving others, but it also becomes richer and happier.

Isenberg exemplified the concept of a servant-leader. He realized one of the great truths in life is understanding that we don’t live in a world all our own and that others are here, too. No matter the circumstance, Doug Isenberg found a way to contribute meaningfully and he did so consistently. He enriched us, our community, and our world through his service. May we not forget his gifts to us.