Thomas William Derrick

Thomas William Derrick passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026, in the comfortable care of Hospice of Dayton, Ohio. He was known as Tom to most, but Opa to his grandchildren. He was born on February 21, 1944, in Xenia, Ohio, where he was raised on his family’s farm.

Tom graduated from Xenia High School with the Class of 1962 and attended the University of Dayton for a while. Throughout his life, he embraced many different careers and experiences, truly embodying the spirit of a jack of all trades. From working as a lineman for DP&L, serving in the Air National Guard, and later building a respected career in sales, Tom took pride in being known as a trusted and honest car salesman.

Outside of work, Tom was a man of many talents, passions, and interests. He loved working on puzzles, listening to music (especially The Eagles), caring for his lawn and home, making his famous chili, grocery shopping, and simply staying busy. Sports and adventure were lifelong passions. In high school, he was a member of the diving team and later became a talented trick water skier, patient fisherman, and avid snow skier.

Tom especially loved fishing with the Hidden Valley Fishing Club in Indiana and creating lasting memories on countless ski trips with his family across the country. His favorite place to ski was Perfect North Slopes, where he celebrated his 80th birthday surrounded by family, riding his favorite ski lift, the “Blue Chair,” and cautiously making his way down the slopes. More than anything, Tom loved sharing these experiences with his children and grandchildren. Skiing became one of the greatest gifts he passed down to his family, and his legacy will continue through the passions he instilled in them.

Tom was many things in this world: patient, gentle, ethical, hardworking, stubborn, and unwaveringly honest. He was also very funny, maintaining his sharp sense of humor even in his final days, joking with the nurses and caregivers. Tom was a really friendly guy, the kind of guy who could strike up a conversation with anyone, whether at the grocery store checkout or with a stranger discussing the weather.

He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 51 years, Susan Derrick; his children, Shelly Derrick, Kelly Derrick and wife Sherry, and Matt Derrick; his grandchildren, Rebecca Thurston, Nicholas Thurston and wife Victoria, Marissa Derrick, and Schoen Derrick; his brother, David Derrick and wife Joette; and many other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, William J. Derrick and Martha J. Derrick.

Tom Derrick lived a life full of adventure and laughter. Though he will be profoundly missed, he will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren, who carry forward the best pieces of him.

There will be no funeral or formal service. A celebration of life will be held by the family at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Hospice of Dayton, 324 Wilmington Ave., Dayton, OH 45420. (Digital link provided below)

To share a memory of Tom with his family or to leave a special message for them, please visit the Guestbook below.