It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of Doug Carmichael, CEO and co-founder of Transport Enterprise Leasing (TEL). He passed Monday, June 24, surrounded by family in Chattanooga, TN after a brief illness.

“Doug was an extraordinarily compassionate business leader who cared deeply about the men and women in our company, and about the success of each and every one of our customers,” said TEL President Jud Alexander, Doug’s co-founder in the business and close friend. The two launched TEL in 2004, building it into a leading national provider of commercial truck and trailer leasing, sales and remarketing.

“Doug was an amazing business leader, and even more importantly he was a man of faith beloved by his family, friends, co-workers, customers and community. Our hearts and prayers are with his wife, their children, grandchildren and entire family,” Alexander said.

A veteran of the U.S. Army, Doug Carmichael began his career in trucking in the 1980s as an independent owner-operator. He grew his business into a fleet of 50 trucks before entering the truck and trailer sales arena. He and Jud Alexander worked together at Covenant Transport, helping the company sell and dispose of used equipment, before starting TEL 20 years ago.

Ever since, Doug Carmichael’s vision was to build Transport Enterprise Leasing into a brand known for outstanding quality and customer service. The company’s first 10 years were critical for evaluating its business model, establishing credibility, and finding the right fit in the industry. In recent years, TEL has focused on strengthening its organizational structure and team of high-quality professionals to support rapid customer growth.

Today, the company provides and finances new and like-new transport equipment to help hardworking professionals build their own profitable businesses. This equipment includes top brands of Class 8 sleepers, day cabs, dry vans, reefers and flatbeds. TEL is also known for its comprehensive support programs, including fleet support and maintenance. The company’s headquarters is in Chattanooga, TN, with additional facility operations near Indianapolis in Greenfield, IN.

“Doug wanted Transport Enterprise Leasing to become known as the gold standard in the industry. He knew that our understanding of each customer’s business needs contributed to their success, and ours,” said TEL President Jud Alexander. “I share that vision and we are continuing his legacy.”

Services will be held for Doug Carmichael at Silverdale Baptist Church, located at 10259 London Ln, Apison, TN 37302, on Friday June 28th at 2 p.m. If you'd like to contribute, the family invites you to donate to the Silverdale Baptist Church building fund for their new campus in Apison, TN.

Please visit the following link: https://silverdalebc.churchcenter.com/giving and select [Reach Apison] in the drop down.