Derek Lavell Harris Sr. was born in Westland, Michigan, on Nov. 25, 1958, to the proud parents of Mr. Willie and Mrs. Vivian Harris.
Derek was baptized in Westland at St. James United Methodist Church. He was a man of God and was always able to brighten a cloudy day. With his determination and strong faith, the sky was the limit for him.
Derek graduated from Utica High School in Utica, Michigan. He was an exceptional athlete. There weren’t many sports Derek didn’t enjoy, but his greatest talents were in track, skiing, motocross, football and basketball.
Derek followed in his father’s footsteps and spent one term in the Air Force. Being so gifted, Derek went down a few different career paths, but found his calling as a truck driver. He found a home with the Teamsters 728. Having family in California, he has been a part of the movie industry most of his life. Derek and his family were very proud of his many accomplishments.
Derek has many loved ones to cherish his memories and live by his example. He was an extremely proud and great father to five children, Derek Jr., Evetta, Damien, Desmon and Micca. Derek’s kids in return blessed him with 11 grandchildren: Samia, Jada, Damien Jr., Desmon Jr., Shane, Marquell, Dallas, Denver, Aleah, De’ Carter and Nevaeh. Derek’s vast circle of special friends, family and co-workers are a testament of how great of a man he was. Derek will truly be missed by all of us! RIH
A celebration of life began at 4 p.m. Sunday, April 22, 2018, at Allen Memorial United Methodist Church in Oxford with the Rev. Josh Roberts as pastor and the Rev. Thomas R. Stegall as eulogist, with assistance from others. Family and friends served as pallbearers and floral bearers.
Burial followed in the Oxford Historical Cemetery.
A fellowship dinner took place in the Georgia Piedmont Technical College Conference Center in Covington following the burial service.
The family of the late Derek Lavell Harris Sr. extends their sincere appreciation for your kindness and all expressions of sympathy and love shown during their hours of bereavement. May God bless each of you.
