On January 8, 2026, my world changed forever when I learned that my 20-year-old son, Derrick Jr., had passed away. I was in Clinton County jail at the time due to a probation violation, and had been calling him for days with no answer. Our family is extremely close, so I knew something was wrong. His grandmother and aunt Traci checked on him and found he was very sick, experiencing vomiting, fever, and fatigue. Despite their efforts to care for him and bring him medicine, he declined to go to the hospital. Tragically, his aunt found him unresponsive the next day.

Derrick Jr. was a truly good young man. He recently graduated from Sexton High School, earned his driver’s license, and started his first job at Meridian Magnesium Products of America. He was never in trouble with the law, at school, or anywhere else. He was hardworking, respectful, and always close to his family. We are so proud of the person he was and the life he was building.

Just weeks before, we had buried my Aunt Cassandra Bland in December 2025, and our family did everything we could to support each other. We never expected to face another tragedy so soon. The support from this fundraiser will help cover funeral expenses for Derrick Jr. I am doing everything I can—selling dinners, donating plasma, and taking odd jobs—to raise money for his service. I was just released from jail on February 3, 2026, and am working to get back on my feet. My son was embalmed three weeks ago, and I am praying to give him a proper funeral as soon as possible.

Any support, whether financial or emotional, means the world to us. Please keep our family in your prayers as we try to heal and recover from these heartbreaking losses. Thank you and God bless you all.