Obituary of Curtis Derrick

Curtis Wildon Derrick, Jr., stepped into heaven on May 17, 2023. He was born in Irmo, SC to Curtis and Thelma Derrick. He attended Clemson University, but his academic career was interrupted by the Second World War. Before departing for the Pacific, he married Martha Virginia Bickley. He served in the US Navy on the LSM 375 in various locations from 1945-1946. He returned home to finish Clemson University with a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture in 1948. He went on to earn a Master’s degree in public education from South Carolina University in1975. Over the years, he taught Agriculture, and served as principal at Lewisville, Greer, and Woodruff. He then moved on to school administration for District 4 schools, serving there until his retirement in 1986. Curtis enjoyed many hobbies including gardening, leathercraft, and woodworking. His children, grandchildren and friends have been the recipients of his handiwork. He was an enthusiastic supporter of his grandchildren, and attended many soccer games, plays, and musical events where they participated. He was a long-time volunteer with the Red Cross and a faithful servant at the Carpenter’s Table. Curtis and Virginia had two sons, Curtis Michael and Emory Joseph. He is survived by his son, Curtis Michael and his wife, Dianne of St. Johns, Florida; Daughter-in-law, Ruth Derrick of Blacksburg, VA; sisters Nell Bailey of Lexington, SC and Jenny Rose Ellisor of Irmo, SC; brother Dan Derrick of Irmo, SC; Grandchildren, Brooks Derrick (Andrea) of Fountain Inn, SC, Evan Derrick (Kristena) of Thompson’s Station, TN, Collin Derrick (Amy) of Decatur, GA, Jillian Derrick Sullivan (Kevin) of Christiansburg, VA. Great-grandchildren (10) Emily, Jacob, Virginia, Mac, Micah, West, Eveleen, Silas, Eli, and Banks. He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia; his son, Emory (Joe); his parents; and his brother, Dwight Derrick. Visitation will be 4 – 6 pm Sunday at Fletcher Funeral Service in Woodruff. A Celebration of Curtis’ Life will be 2 o’clock Monday at Reidville Road United Methodist Church. Prior to the service, burial with Military Honors will be 11 o’clock Monday at Bush River Memorial Gardens in Irmo, SC. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Reidville Road UMC, 5575 Reidville Road, Moore, SC 29369; or to The Carpenters Table Foodbank, 5957 Reidville Rd, Moore, SC 29369.