LIFE'S JOURNEY & LEGACY OF
Derriel Cornelius Futch
"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heavens," Ecclesiastes 3:1
A TIME TO BE BORN
Derriel Cornelious Futch was born April 4, 1958, in Collins GA to Leavi Benjamin and Eveyln Catherine Futch , lovingly called Georgia Boy by friends and family. Derriel was a genuine believer of God, he was born into the family of Jesus Christ at Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church at an early age. Derriel served in many capacities in the church such as on the Usher Board, Choir President and hospitality where he used his culinary skills to satisfy many appetites. Derriel was a man with many talents, he truly had a gift of a voice that could lift spirits, bring comfort, and inspire joy. Through the years Derriel shared his talent at countless church services, weddings, funerals, community events and celebrations, leaving lasting memories with every song he sang. His passion for music was a reflection of his love for God and people. He was known not only for his powerful voice but also for his kind heart, warm smile, and willingness to help others, he had a personality as big as life. Derriel believed in spreading love and laughter, and he had the ability to turn any moment into a cherished memory. Derriel was also known for his sharp sense of style, he loved to dress and always carried himself with confidence and class, whether singing, working, or attending a special event, he made sure to look his best, leaving a lasting impression everywhere he went. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A TIME TO LEARN
Derriel received his early education at Collins Elementary School in Collins, GA. In 1964 he moved to West Palm Beach Florida to live with his mother where he continued his education at Roosevelt Elementary SchooI, Roosevelt Jr. High School and Forest Hill High School from which he graduated in 1978. At the age of 24 he left West Palm Beach and returned to Collins, GA to begin a new chapter in his life, one filled with purpose, community, and song.
A TIME TO BUILD
In 1987 Derriel married the love of his life Sandra Jordan Futch, and to this union three girls were born Cozia, Twalla, and Tilisha. Their marriage was a reflection of true love and partnership, grounded in faith, laughter, and respect.
A TIME TO PLANT
Derriel, a dedicated employee, began his work experience working on a farm. Later, he became a bus driver for the Tattnall County School and a few years later he became the grounds keeper for the school. Throughout the years, Derriel worked at Claxton Bakery, Trane and Georgia Department of Correction. Derriel was a hardworking man who took great pride in everything he did. He became an entrepreneur and CEO of A Touch of Futch Lawn Services, where he dedicated himself to providing excellent service in beautifying his community. His business became well known for his quality of work and his friendly dependable nature.
A TIME TO WEAR YOUR CROWN
After a faithful and Christian life Derriel Cornelius Futch entered eternal rest on October 22, 2025. Derriel received his wings where he would get his crown in his eternal home. Life races well run, life works well done, life crown well-worn and now Derriel you can take your rest. Although his voice is now silent on earth, the melody of his life will live on in the hearts of those he touched. Derriel was preceded in death by his parents Leavi Benjamin Futch and Evelyn Catherine Futch, his son Michael McRae, his daughter Tilisha Futch Collins and four sisters Shirley, Carolyn, Linda and Gloria.
Cherishing his wonderful memories and Christian legacy is a loving and devoted wife of thirty-eight years Sandra Futch; two loving daughters Cozia and Twalla Futch both of Vidalia GA; son-in-law, Alvin Antwan Collins III, of Savannah, GA; four grandchildren, ChaKasia Futch, JaKasia Futch, Ky'an Futch of Vidalia, GA and Leiam Collins of Savannah, GA; sisters, Articia Futch of West Palm Beach, Florida ( who he lovingly referred to as his second mother), Sharon Futch of Columbus, GA, Deborah Dunlap of Charlotte, NC, and Tangie Jordan of Vidalia GA; brothers, Harriel Futch of Collins, GA, Gary Futch of West Palm Beach, Florida, LaNorris Futch of White Plains, NY, Maurice Byrd of Savannah, GA, Lynn Futch of Houston, Texas, Keith Futch of Collins, GA, and Sean Futch (Bridgette) of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; one special uncle, Freddie Jackson of Collins GA; mother-in-law, Bernease Jordan of Vidalia,GA; sisters-in-law, Darlene (Willis ) Hilbert of Vidalia GA, Jacqueline Jordan of Warner Robins, GA; brothers-in-law, Charles Carson of Elmsford, New York, Paul Jordan of Fort Lauderdale, FL, Keith Jordan of Vidalia, GA; godson, Ricardo (Dusty) Bird and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many loving friends.
Read More