By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Derek Lavell Harris Sr.
Lester Lackey and Sons Funeral Home
obits.jpg
Published: Apr 28, 2018, 8:29 AM

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.
Obituary: Otis Daniel Criswell
Otis Daniel Criswell
Published: Apr 4, 2025, 7:06 PM

Otis Daniel Criswell, age 72, of Covington, Georgia, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born on February 26, 1953, in Athens, Georgia to Melvin Daniel (Coach) Criswell and Veeda Claire Kirkland. 

A proud graduate of Newton County high school, class of 1971. Otis went on to join the army National Guard, serving 6 years. He dedicated 30+ years of his career as a senior Claims representative for George Farm Bureau.

Beyond his professional life, Otis was a passionate University of Georgia football fan. During football season, he could always be found on the deck grilling with family and friends with at least two TVs playing the game. He also loved traveling with his family for martial arts tournaments across the country and cherished time spent relaxing on the beach.

Otis is preceded in death by his parents, Melvin Daniel (Coach) Criswell, Veeda Claire Kirkland and brother, Duane Criswell.

Left to cherish his memory or his children, Jamie (Tony) Pascale Loganville, Georgia, Brian (Carlie) Criswell of Barnesville, Georgia, and Matt Criswell of Covington Georgia; Grandchildren: Kayla and Emma; sister, Donna Criswell Hiett; brother, Dallas (Robin) Criswell; nieces and nephews, Michael, Kimberly, Kevin, Brandon, Preston, and Destiny. 

Otis will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His memory will live on through the many lives he touched. A celebration of Otis ‘s life will be held at Faith Tabernacle Church. 631 Ralph Rd - Conyers, Georgia 30094 on Sunday, April 6, 2025 at 3:00 pm.