Derrick White

Derrick White was born on January 24, 1955, in Gary, Indiana, to Hosea and Ruth White. A graduate of Roosevelt High School, he began his career as a machinist and later moved into sales, where his warm personality helped him excel.

In 1977, Derrick married Irma Cruz and lovingly embraced her daughter Marisol as his own. Together they welcomed two additional children, Derrick Von and Dominique. After several years in Texas, the family returned to Gary. Though Derrick and Irma later dissolved their union, this season marked a turning point in his life. In his search for strength and direction, Derrick surrendered his life to Jesus Christ and became deeply committed to his faith. He joined New Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, accepted his calling to preach, and pursued seminary training. After his ordination, he served faithfully at New Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church.

In 1990, Derrick married Denina Nash, and together they welcomed three children—Jacob, Raven, and Jasmine. He was a devoted father who cherished family time, supported and celebrated all his children's endeavors and accomplishments, and found joy in guiding them spiritually. This union was also dissolved, however, Derrick remained an influential force in the lives of his children.

In 2010, Derrick was installed as Pastor of Victory Temple Baptist Church in Gary, where he served with dedication and compassion. He also worked for many years as a maintenance employee for the City of East Chicago Marina and remained active in ministry throughout the region. Derrick was deeply influenced by, and grateful for, the mentorship of several respected pastors and leaders.

In his later years, Pastor White found loving companionship with Ms. Regina Tyson, who stood faithfully by his side. He would go on to request Regina's hand in marriage, although he was called home prior to them having an opportunity to honor this commitment.

Pastor Derrick White was preceded in death by his parents Hosea White Sr. and Ruth (Garwood Von) Hardiman, and siblings Otis, Hosea Jr., and Milton White. He leaves to cherish his memory six children—Marisol (Steven) Edmond, Derrick (Kisha) White, Dominique (Andrew) Singleton, Jacob (Aquanita) White, Raven White, and Jasmine White—twelve grandchildren, Jakobe, Zhanvié, Caihia, Chase, Derrick II, Ava, Aubri, Alana, Legend, Alma, Naomi, and Elijah; five siblings, Geneva Irons, Iris (Warren) Outlaw, LaVon Stinson, Linda Davis, and Marvin White, one sister-in-law, Terry White, his fiancée Regina Tyson, and a host of relatives and friends.

Visitation, Friday December 19, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. -11:00 a.m. with funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. All services at the Tree of Life Missionary Baptist Church 2323 West 11th Avenue Gary, Indiana 46404. Pastor Dr. Eric Boone officiating. Interment Oak Hill Cemetery.