Derrick Matthew White

     Derrick Matthew White, known affectionately as Derrick, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2023, in Opelika, Alabama. Born on December 9, 1971, in Atlanta, Georgia, Derrick was a beacon of kindness, generosity, and thoughtfulness throughout his 51 years of life.

     Derrick was the loving husband of Leonna White. Their bond was a testament to their shared values of love, faith, and family. Derrick's love for his wife was evident in his every action, and his dedication to his family was unwavering. His good sense of humor and playful demeanor made him a pleasure to be around, and his kind-hearted nature touched everyone he met. Derrick was the beloved son of Doug and Pattie White, and a cherished brother to Daniel White (Christina), Andrew White (Ashley), and Dottie Lake (Shane). He was a devoted uncle to his nieces and nephews, Katie Beth, Taylor, Luke, Axel, Kwinn, Olivia, and Daisy. Derrick was also a dear nephew and cousin within his extended family, leaving behind numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins who will miss him dearly.

     Derrick was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ray White, Sr., Dot White, Betty White, Burson and LaMuralMoore; and mother-in-law, Donna Moore. Derrick was a familiar face at the local Wal-Mart, where he worked as an associate for over 20 years. If you had been to Wal-Mart during that time, you would have undoubtedly encountered Derrick or his wife. Derrick was always kind and helpful to his customers, embodying the spirit of service in his daily work. His skills extended beyond his work at Wal-Mart, as he was also a talented craftsman. Derrick excelled at making cabinets, carpentry, and woodworking, showcasing his meticulous attention to detail and his passion for creating. A man of Christian faith, Derrick's beliefs guided his actions and shaped his character.

     In the wake of his passing, we remember a man who lived a joyful, selfless life. He was a loving husband, a devoted son and brother, a cherished uncle, and a valued member of his community.

     Derrick Matthew White will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

     Funeral services for Derrick will be held on Sunday, September 17th, 2023 at 2:00 PM (EDT) at Happy Valley Baptist Church. Interment will follow in Shawmut Cemetery. The Reverend John Samanie will officiate. Derrick’s family will receive friends Saturday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 PM (EDT) at the Johnson Brown-Service Funeral Home in Valley.

     Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made in memory of Derrick to the Lana Turner Foundation, http://lanaturnerfoundation.org .

     Please visit Derrick’s Memorial Tribute page at www.johnsonbrownservicefh.com to leave a kind word for Derrick’s family, to share a memory of Derrick or to light a Remembrance Candle in his memory.

     Johnson Brown-Service Funeral Home of Valley directing.

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