To know Derrick was to love him.

Derrick was born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (brittle bone disease), a condition that caused him to suffer more than 200 broken bones throughout his life. He spent his life in a wheelchair, but if you knew Derrick, you know that wheelchair never defined him. It simply carried him through life—and through countless memories with the people he loved.

Life tested Derrick in ways most of us could never imagine. He not only lived with brittle bone disease but also fought and beat cancer. Time after time, he faced impossible odds with unwavering strength, a contagious smile, and a joke that could make anyone laugh. No matter what life threw at him, it never broke his spirit.

On Friday, July 31, our lives changed forever. Derrick was tragically struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross the road.

If you’re from Petal, chances are you’ve seen Derrick rolling through town. He knew everyone, and everyone knew him. He never met a stranger. Whether he was stopping to talk, checking on someone, or making them laugh, Derrick left people feeling better than he found them.

Our family knows heartbreak all too well. In 2017, we lost our dad in a motorcycle accident on Evelyn Gandy Parkway. We never imagined we would be facing another unimaginable tragedy—this time, saying goodbye to Derrick. Losing two of the people we love most in such sudden, heartbreaking ways is a pain that words simply cannot describe.

Derrick was a cherished son, a loving brother, a devoted partner, a proud uncle, and a loyal friend. He taught those around him what true strength looked like—not through words, but through the way he lived every single day. His resilience, kindness, and selflessness inspired everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

As our family navigates this devastating loss, we are asking for help to give Derrick the dignified farewell he deserves. Funeral expenses come unexpectedly, and any contribution, no matter the amount, will help ease the financial burden during this incredibly difficult time.

If you are unable to donate, we completely understand. Please keep our family in your prayers and consider sharing Derrick’s story. Every prayer, every share, and every act of kindness means more than we can ever express.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for the overwhelming love and support you’ve shown our family. The outpouring of kindness is a reflection of the incredible man Derrick was. His strength, laughter, compassion, and unwavering spirit will live on in everyone who knew and loved him.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever our Derrick.