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DERRICK BRIAN BATEMAN

About

Merced High School

DERRICK BATEMAN Obituary

April 7, 1983 - October 17, 2009

Our gentle giant was taken from us on October 17, 2009 to go home and be with the Lord. He was born in Bossier City, Louisiana on April 7, 1983.

He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Joyce and Arthur Wert of Merced; father, Robert Barry Bateman of Falls Church, Virginia; grandmother, Neomia Graham and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends, who all loved him dearly.

Derrick was a 2001 graduate of Merced High School and was employed at Rent-A-Center. His loving spirit and kindness will be missed by all.

Graveside Services will be held on Friday, October 23, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at Merced District Cemetery.In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations to be made in Derrick's name to the Toys for Tots.

Arrangements are under the direction of Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Merced Sun Star on Oct. 21, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for DERRICK BATEMAN

80 Entries

Rebecca Justice-Davis

August 10, 2025

You look just like your cousin Brian Lee, I'm sorry you never met. Your Aunt Rebecca.

Aunt Rita

October 15, 2023

Not a day goes by Nephew that I don´t see your smile or remember those incredible hugs that made one feel they were in the safest place in the world! Those memories will have to last until I can get an actual hug again-rest easy Big Man-Love you always

AUNTIE JEAN

October 21, 2010

I MISS YOU LIKE CRAZY AND WILL NEVER FORGET YOU. SOMEDAY WE WILL (ALL) BE TOGETHER AGAIN

October 18, 2010

Lord, how we love that smile!Missing you is an everyday kinda thing Nephew, but knowing that we will see you again one day, before too long, makes it easier to go on! Love Forever, Aunt Rita

May 10, 2010

Finally!Heaven is satisfied!The Family can collectively EXhale! Now the healing begins! Love You Nephew Always! Aunt Rita

Adrian Bryant

April 30, 2010

Just wanted to let all the family know that derrick is and always will be one of my best friends in the world. I miss you like crazy man.

Rita Graham Crosby

March 31, 2010

You've been on my mind a lot these last few days my "Bubba"! I don't know if it's because your birthday's coming around soon, or maybe because your mom's b-day is or Big Momma's anniversary, but whatever it is, I know that I've been missing you a whole lot these past few days! I know you're fine, & I know you're happy, and that helps, but my heart & soul sure is missing you Big Man! I've seen you in my dreams and you're as always, smilin'! Thank you for those smiles, cause they're gonna have to last me a lifetime. I love you ! Aunt Rita

Jakelia Scott

March 27, 2010

Derrick was the number one among his peers. He was on top of his game. Know that, and my friend. We watch TV, took shots of his own creations of liquor. I took his trash out. returned his stolen iron and in return he gave me a canon printer. He also would read his rap lyrics and Loved and Performed Lil' Wayne "Brand New". He deserved all his dreams and his life. All in all Derrick Brian Bateman "threw a little salt on the game". -SISSY

Janet Colomer

November 3, 2009

I just heard about Derrick .. his big heart will NEVER be forgotten.. GOD BLESS!!

JENNIFER AARON

November 2, 2009

i still have not forgotten about him, love you BIG D!!!!

October 28, 2009

Joyce, I just read the obituary about your son. I am so sorry for your loss and I am praying for you and your family. May Derrick have peace and God bless you and your family. Rosemarie Ogletree Jacobs(BKA) Sketa. Reno, Nevada.

~Susanne West

October 28, 2009

I just heard about what happened. I can't believe it's true, I seen him last week walking in the Merced mall. I remember going to school at Sheehy and every year when it came to who was the tallest in the class. I always lost to him. He was always happy and always ready for new friends. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. You will be missed.

October 27, 2009

Sasha Versage

October 25, 2009

Derrick,
You touched my heart in so many ways. I miss your smile, your laugh and your giant bear hugs. I miss your daily text messages which reminded me to smile even when things were bad. I miss you showing up at my house just to say hello and us laughing about how you had to "stalk" me. I miss everything. I find myself waiting outside on the stairs hoping you will just show up (like you always did). I just know that God needed an angel and he picked a great one. All you knew how to do was to LOVE. Thank you for showing me what life is really about. I will always remember you and miss you. And don't you worry, I will take great care of your little brother for you. ALL MY LOVE.

Sabrina Krenn

October 24, 2009

Derrick, I went to your service yesterday, it was a good turn out.. I'm still in shock! You were the person who was always there for me no matter what.. I will remember all our memories we had in our 10 years of friendship!!! I'm going to miss your BIG smile, your hugs, your laugh, your advice, and how you always had love for me... i just wanna talk to you again and hug you.. i know your watching over me, and the little mamas. i'll see you again derrick, I LOVE YOU!!

melani mc dowell

October 24, 2009

well i didnt know you personally but you were one the most respectfull MEN that ever went thru my drive-thru..... you sure did like jack in the box all those fridays and sat. after all the party goers here you came always made me smile....R.I.P.

Jayme Acree (neally)

October 24, 2009

hey derrick,
i remember you since high school. u always loved a hug and you were a great hugger!! thank u for being such a great person to so many people!

Jessie Thompson

October 24, 2009

I a going to miss You Derrick more than anyone will ever know. Your passing has left a empty feeling in my heart. I know that I am your oldest Aunt and because I helped my parents care for your Mom and referred to her as "My Baby", I feel like you are my Grandchild and nephew all in one.(That explains why you grew so Big) You have always been a joy to me and I can truly say everyone of my memories of you are precious and are stored in that "NANA" part of my heart. I thank God and your parents for giving our family such a joy in our lives even if for just a little while.I Love you and will miss you "Baby" and that big smile with dimples.

Jared Jarvis

October 24, 2009

I love you miss you and thank you for being such a great friend. I have known you sense kindergarten missing times in between but meeting up again at a later age playing football just having good times. I wish the best to the family thanks once again for raising such a great man he will truly be missed. remember prayer changes things.

Cherie Grigsby

October 24, 2009

I will forever miss my friend and carry him in my heart. The world needs more humane ambassadors like him. It was a pleasure to know a man so endearing and caring. It was a beautiful sight to see so many people paying their respects yesterday at his memorial. RIP Derrick "Gentle Giant" Bateman

castro family

October 24, 2009

My wife and I where customers of Rent A Center
we used to talk to your son for hours in the store.
He was a truly Great person. We will miss him and keep him in our hearts forever. Just know your son is in GODS great paradise singing for our Heavenly father.

MANNY (MONEY) HINOJOS

October 23, 2009

DAMM BRO ITS CRAZY TO THINK YOUR NOT WITH US ANY MORE IN THE SHORT TIME I GOT TO KNOW YOU WE HAD SOME GOOD TIMES SMASHING AROUND IN THE RAC TRUCK CHILLING AFTER WORK WITH YOU AND THE 1069 BOYS GOOD TIMES BRO GONNA MISS YOU MAN R.I.P.
.

ronell s

October 23, 2009

My heart goes out to his family nobody deserves to have their life taken away from them.Derrick was akind person I am a Rent A Center customer and I did get to meet him he had such a kind heart but we all know he's in a better place and thar's with the Lord,cry not family he's in a safe place. His big smile will be missed when I'm entering Rent A center God Bless Derrick's family in Jesus name!

Marcia Carrillo

October 23, 2009

Joyce and Art my prayers and thoughts are with you and I pray for comfort. I was so glad I was able to attend Derrick's memorial service today. It was obvious how many lives Derrick impacted by the number of people that attended. It was a wonderful memorial service and your family is a wonderful support system too. I will stay in touch much more often. I love you all.
marcia

Tia Watson Martin

October 23, 2009

I thank God every day that I got a chance to hang out with my lil Big Cuz this past July, I had so much fun with "the boys" my cousins! In the past Me, Mom and the kids would sit around and talk about our family and all the different personalities, and eventually of course you and Aunt Joyce would come up! And the one things that never changed through all these years, and no matter who was describing you; whether it was me, Aliyah, Alaina whichever, the first thing any of us talked about was that "big old smile, and then the bear hugs always came next! Those memories precious then and would hold us until we got to see you again and add some more new ones, and that's the same thing that will happen now! We're going pull out all our precious memories of you, and those "only Derrick" hugs and smiles and they'll have to hold us until we get to see you again! We Love You Derrick! Tia, Aliyah, Alaina, Andrew and Alyssa!

tashima and johnny shamoun

October 23, 2009

im so sorry for the family and for him.i keep in mind that he flew off to heaven on the wings of angels.he is now in a better place were he can rest in peace and he will never be forgotten.

Corina G. Campos

October 23, 2009

To Joyce, Art & Robert;
I’d like to first say that the Campos Family extends our condolences and prayers to the Graham Family, Joyce, Art, and Robert. May the good Lord give you guidance and strength in the days to come; may the memory of your “BABY” give your hearts comfort for your time blessed with his presence; family and friends will pray for to heal from such a tragic loss.
I remember the year Derrick, mom and dad all came home to Merced. My niece Leetiecha was insisting her mom and I had to take her to Big Momma’s house because her Auntie Joyce and Uncle Robert were home and she HAS to meet her cousin Derrick. Joyce was relocating back to the area after completing her military commitment and she was asking all Derricks’ cousins to come to Big Momma’s and meet their cousin. When we get there of course we get the greetings and reminiscing done and then Joyce makes a point to say the next thing she wanted was to introduce us to her BABY. Derrick had to be around three or four; but he could’ve been mistaken for five, six, even seven years old which I just had to comment about the obvious – this child was big. She calls to him; he immediately turns and responds to her instructions to get over there so that he can meet more of his aunties and cousin Leetiecha. Joyce is standing there with the biggest grin I’ve seen her wear since graduating high school and receiving her diploma. Joyce’s response to my comment was “yup, that’s my baby….isn’t he just beautiful?” His spirit and goodness was more than obvious; even as a child Derrick was just as sweet as he can be. And after being properly introduced to his Aunt Christine, Aunt Corina, and cousin Leetiech he came over, extends his little man arm and hand and very politely gave each one of us girls a very firm handshake. There was Joyce standing there grinning ear to ear and saying as proud as she could, “look at my little man…isn’t he just beautiful?” In all the years growing up with Joyce I’ve never seen her more happy or satisfied with all life had given her until that moment she was showing off her Baby Boy. She tells us of the story of when Derrick had been given instructions to be the little person’s protector. Joyce was saying something regarding Derrick getting picked on by some of the bigger kids at one of the previous base they were stationed at, and she goes on to say that she had to sit with him and explain some things about being “bullied” and how when he gets bigger it’s going to be his job to make sure the little kids don’t be bullied. His mom explained how because of his size; which wasn’t going to stop just because he’ll hit puberty, he could help others by being more responsible and respectful of others and to try and stop or try help out when someone is being picked on or bullied.
The next opportunity to meet Derrick was when with another of Derricks’ cousins (Ricky), who would be together at sporting events or family events. He was always polite, very respectful of others around him, VERY mindful of the small children surrounding him. It always seemed like the little tikes would gravitate to Derrick; kind of like the big scary rides at the amusement parks that you just can’t resist but know if you get on the ride you’re going to be in for some fun and an adventure!!! Derrick loved his music, sharing his time with his friends and co-workers but more than anything he loved his FAMILY and all those closer to him than just friends that he’d make them feel like family!!!
Joyce you, Art, and Robert can stand proud to know that you’ve raised a MAN that left his mark on this world and in this small town of Merced. When you and the family come together for whatever reasons, talk, remember, and reminisce about all the good and bad times shared with him as these will be what keeps Derrick always present.
Many people don’t see angels in human form but with Derrick that wasn’t the case; the moment you met him you knew he was one of the good Lord’s sheperd….Rest in Peace!

October 23, 2009

Joyce,
May God's hands comfort you in this time of such sadness. I was so very sorry to here of your loss. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I never met your son, but a reflection of you, he was a beautiful person. The memories that no one can ever take from you, will help in your healing, not to forget but to forever have him close.

`Joan Moses, Hayward, CA

Lydia Cortez

October 23, 2009

I was so shocked to hear about Derrick passing away..... I went to school with Derrick he always had the biggest smile on his face.... that is one thing I will never forget about him.... RIP Derrick Bateman. You will be truly missed.

Trina Garcia-Sonnabend

October 23, 2009

Derrick is my younger cousin whom I love deeply. We shared so many wonderful years together. He's a huge part of who I am...he's a huge part of our family. I can't imagine going home to visit and Derrick not being there. I am so blessed that I was able to share so much of my life with him. I'm really going to miss you Derrick. I love you!!! XOXO

the tightest family on earth!!!!

October 22, 2009

We both couldn't believe the news of Derrick's passing...I still can't! One thing that I will forever take with me are the numours hugs that he gave out and that contagious smile. I hadn't seen Derrick since High School and a few years ago we ran into each other. He greeted me witht he biggest smile and hug when he saw me and looking back it makes me smile. I feel blessed to have known such a great guy.

Our deepest thoughts and prayers go out to everyone in Derrick's life, he will forever be remembered.

Go in peace...

Michele Cooper & Art Gonzales

HECTOR VASQUEZ

October 22, 2009

WHATS UP BIG D, MAN WHAT CAN I SAY! THERE ARE NO WORDS THAT TO SAY THAT ARE GONNA BRING YOU BACK! I GUESS ITS HARD TO FIND CLOSURE WHEN YOU CAN NEVER SAY GOODBYE! I KNOW YOUR PRESENCES WILL ALWAYS BE WITH EVERYONE WHO HAD THE PLEASURE OF MEETING YOU! WE ALL MISS YOU! YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART! MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO ALL OF YOUR FAMILY! GOD BLESS!

Carrie Coberley

October 22, 2009

My thoughts and prayer goes out to Derrick's family. I have know Derrick since our days at Rivera....I got kicked out of music class because be made me laugh too much. We moved on to high school together where he continued to be a great friend. I am so thankful that I was given the chance to know Derrick. You with forever be missed Derrick the big man B...xoxo

Desarae Emerick

October 22, 2009

I've been lucky enough to have Derrick in my life for the past 8 years. He was like a brother to me. He was known and loved by my immediate family and close friends. There was nothing Derrick wouldn't do to help a friend out. I am devastated that my best friend is gone so soon. I love him so much and will never forget him. I have so many great memories with Derrick, from hanging out in LA to just kicking back out on the couch. Whenever I was around him, we were smiling, laughing, and having a great time. We also had very mature conversations about our lives and goals. Derrick was an indepenpent, outgoing, warm-hearted, hilarious man. I will miss him so much. He was my super-sized teddy bear. To know Derrick was to love Derrick. He may be gone, but he will never be forgotten. I'll love you forever. I'll like you for always. As long as I'm living, in my heart you will be. I love you Derrick and I will never forget you.

Morgan Thomas

October 22, 2009

My thoughts go out to Derrick's family and friends. He was a wonderful person who always knew how to make a girl smile. In many ways many moons ago Derrick was my gentle giant and for this I will forever be thankful. It was a pleasure knowing him and he will be missed.

Pamela Cole

October 22, 2009

I went to Merced High with Derrick and had a class or two with him. Although I never knew him all that well, he was one of those people that you just could never forget! His goofy, yet very sweet personality, his bright and friendly smile, and his big bear size were, Im sure, just a few of the traits about him that I, as well as everyone who knew, or even just knew of him will forever remember. RIP Derrick...you are loved and missed by many who had the pleasure of knowing you!

Michelle A.

October 22, 2009

I had the pleasure of knowing Derrick and my heart is hurting for the loss of this good man and friend..He was a great person to know. He had a personality that would light up a room any given day!! He lived his life how he wanted to but was always willing to help others. He always made me laugh even when he knew I was mad at the world and that I will miss about him for always. I have great memories of Derrick and I will always cherish them...Derrick you may be gone but I can promise you that YOU will never be forgotten. I know you are up there watching over us and that is what will comfort me throught this pain. Love ya big guy!!!

Marcia Carrillo

October 22, 2009

Derrick visited my house several times for dinner during his early years as a middle school student. He was always such a respectful and enjoyable child to have around. Derrick also was a student at the school that I teach at, Merced High School. Derrick always had a smile on his face and was cheerful. I remember when I lost weight and he said "You are skinny". I have never heard that since. I will miss him. I send my prayers and thoughts to his family.

Marissa Martinezq

October 22, 2009

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Bateman family. Derrick was such a loving gentle giant and always polite and kind, always interested in how others are doing and the love he had for my nieces and nephew will always be remembered. It really was too soon. i will love n miss him. but i know he is resting and in peace.

October 22, 2009

JD, man it's just not fair that your gone. It was way to soon. I'm in shock along with eveyone else. I miss you oh so much. You were so kind, loving, n gentle to everyone. How can someone do this to our gentle giant:(
Living with such an awesome guy like you was so fun. I got to listen to u sing in the shower, be crazy at times, and listen to all ur good advice n postive out look on life. Oh n most of all watching u n the white dudes play X-Box was ohhh sooo fun lol!! You loved ur games that's for sure. I'm sure ur gonna be playing them all day everyday now.
I miss ur calls already and I'm never gonna forget the times we shared together. I love u tons u were my big brother that always protected me no matter what!! I Love you D
<3 Melie

Gloria R

October 22, 2009

Although we never officially met, I knew Derrick only in passing. He was always polite and kind and greeted me with smiles and generosity. My prayers go to the Bateman Family. I will truly miss seeing Derrick around town although, I know he's with us now in spirit.

October 22, 2009

Derrick was a "Great Soul". I learned much about life and myselft from our many times hanging out joking and laughing. This was a guy who could make a person laugh during their darkest momemts. A guy who lived his life the way he wanted to, never looking back only forward. Now is the time we all should reflect on what Derrick taught us.... To live life to the fullest. I love you Derrick you will be missed. Phillip Prince (Stockton, Ca)

Alicia Temores

October 22, 2009

Neighbor..this is so hard to deal with..you're such a great man who never let anyone down..you were real..you told me the truth when I asked for it no matter if I like the answer or not..you are who I went to for advice..and you would always be there to give it to me..the babies and I miss you so much..it's so hard to look up knowing you're not going to come down those stairs..my heart hurts..whose going to throw pennies at my window and bug me to make enchiladas or lasagna..I'll be sure to remind Alaya of the times she was mad at you for bringing your lady friends over too..we have nothing but great memories of you Neighbor..you kept us safe and you always made sure we never went without..I really don't know what we're going to do without you..you'd want me to be strong but it's just so damn hard..WE LOVE YOU NEIGHBOR!! REST IN PARADISE and I'll be waiting until I get to see your big bright smile again..LOVE YOU NEIGHBOR!!!!

Loving You Always,
Alicia, Jason, Lealani, and Alaya

Lisa Brown

October 21, 2009

I am so sorry about your loss. Derrick was such a nice guy and a joy to be around. Your family will be in my prayers!

Cristina Ballard

October 21, 2009

I wanted to share something I wrote in memory of Derrick. This goes to all of Derricks friends and family.

May you soar like a butterfuly, fly like a dove, and rest in the lords home right up above.

Your big beautiful smile those cute dimples and laugh too. Oh, how we will miss and cherish all the memories of you.

You are in a better place this we all know, but oh how much it hurts we are all going to miss you so.

So young yet so intelligent, talented, and great advise you always gave. Now we take what you taught and told us and stand strong and brave.

If you were here today I know what you would say " Raise up a cold one high up to the sky, whip away those tears and all who loved and knew me, break open the Heineken beers!"

Your sense of humor never ceased to amaze me. The way you made everyone laugh so hard we would cry. Its no wonder why its so hard to say our final good bye.

But, is it a good bye or merly a I will see you again.

Because we will all be with Derrick once more when our final day comes to and end.

Much love and respect to all of his family our prayers are with you all.

Love Cristina..

Jenica Ramirez

October 21, 2009

Derrick I love you so much...I am going to miss you! You're such a good friend to me. Whenever I needed someone to talk to you were there to listen and help me through. You are the nicest, most warm hearted person I have ever known. Even when I would be in a bad mood you would always be there for me no matter what. You never turned your back on me and I will forever miss you. My prayers goes out to you and to your family...God Bless you D.

Evelyn Coleman

October 21, 2009

Joyce, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Arron Lopez

October 21, 2009

Derrick,
Man I will miss you greatly and my visits to Merced will never be the same knowing you aren't around. I cherish all the good times we had at Merced High. You are already greatly missed bro!!!

Val Shafer

October 21, 2009

Big D, larger than life, Truly a heart of gold. Will miss your voice, and always positive attitude when I call your store. Way to young to be gone. Rest in peace Bro.Myself and the crew of Rent A Center store #723 send our condolences to your family.

ricky sims

October 21, 2009

To joyce my throughts and prayers are with you and your family in your time of sorrow.I remember when we worked together and I would come by your house and derrick always had a smile on his face and jokes he will be missed god bless you and keep you in his care. Love always Ricky Sims

Manuel Ayala

October 21, 2009

I had the pleasure of meeting Derrick while coaching for Merced High in 1998. Derrick was a GREAT young man and I really felt like he was a son to me. Although we have loss touch over the years I never loss my those son feelings for him. Derrick will be greatly missed by many people. I send my deepest condolences to his family. Manuel Ayala

Trudy Baker

October 21, 2009

Derrick,

You were always a ray of light in our younger days at work and at school. I know that there are a lot of people who will miss your kindness and your humor. I just wish I was able to say goodbye. I know that the lord will hear my prayers for you and you will get the message. I hope you are delighting in the spirit of God as you rest in his kingdom. Meanwhile, we are all going to miss you here.

<3 Trudy

DONNIE TONELLI

October 21, 2009

BIG D. THE BEST CREDIT MANAGER I HAVE EVER SEEN. YOU WERE MORE THAN AN EMPLOYEE TO ME, BUT TRULY A FRIEND. YOU KNEW HOW TO LIFT ME UP WHEN I WAS DOWN. YOU KNEW HOW TO LEAD AND NOT FOLLOW. YOU KNEW HOW TO BRING A SMILE TO EVERYBODY WHO WALKED THROUGH OUR DOORS. I PRAY TO GOD THAT HE TAKES CARE OF YOU THE WAY YOU'VE TAKEN CARE OF EVERYBODY ELSE. I HAVE SPENT THE LAST 2 YEARS OF MY LIFE, ALMOST EVERY DAY, FOR AT LEAST 10 HOURS A DAY, ENJOYING YOUR PRESENCE. YOU WERE TRULY ONE OF THE FEW GOOD MEN LEFT IN THIS WORLD. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE MY SOLDIER IN THE FIELD. I WILL ALWAYS LOVE, MISS, AND REMEMBER YOU. GOD WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU NOW BIG GUY. BIG D, HOWEVER, WILL BE REMEMBERED.

Kelly W.

October 21, 2009

Derrick was a great friend to all. He was always positive, kind, happy, and fun to be around. I had lots of good times with him and always appreciated our talks. I will miss his smile, his laugh, his love, his spirit, his hugs.... My thoughts and prayers are with all of his family and friends. I can't believe he was taken away. He will truly be missed. We love you, Derrick, and may you rest in peace.

DONNIE TONELLI

October 21, 2009

BIG D...THE BADDEST CREDIT MANAGER I EVER SEEN. YOU WERE MORE THAN AN EMPLOYEE TO ME, YOU WERE A TRUE FRIEND. I ENJOYED SPENDING ALMOST EVERYDAY WITH YOU FOR AT LEAST 10 HOURS A DAY. YOU KNEW HOW TO BRING ME UP WHEN I WAS DOWN. YOU KNEW HOW TO LEAD AND NOT FOLLOW. YOU KNEW HOW TO MAKE ANYONE WHO CAME THROUGH OUR DOORS, SMILE. YOU WERE TRULY ONE OF THE FEW GOOD MEN WHO ARE LEFT IN THIS WORLD, AND I PRAY TO GOD THAT HE TAKES CARE OF YOU THE WAY YOU DID FOR EVERYBODY. YOU WERE MY SOLDIER, AND I'M REALLY GOING TO MISS YOU MAN. I WILL ALWAYS LOVE AND REMEMBER YOU BIG D.

DONNIE

meliss v

October 21, 2009

im lost for words,my heart hurts,and u have been taken away from us too soon.u will forever be n my heart and i will never forget you.. you always knew the right things to say when i was so sad. my heart goes out to your family..u r now a angel in heaven watching over all of us..i will miss u buddy....

Tony Nush

October 21, 2009

Joyce:

I remember meeting your Derrick back in our commute days and I talked with him at the store a couple of times. He was an impressive young man and had respect for other people that you do not see in many young people these days; I am so sorry you have to experience this tragic and painful loss. God comfort you is Alice's and my prayer for you.

Sam Parker

October 21, 2009

Joyce. My heart goes out to you and all your family. You were always to proud of "your Derrick" and he will be deeply missed. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

DONNA COLES-LEWIS

October 21, 2009

Joyce, i'm very sorry to hear of your loss,our prayers are with you. Derrick was always such a gentleman evertime he crossed my path, he always gave me a big hug,my son,s Patrick&Larry always spoke highly of Derrick. god bless your family, Much Love,

Donna Coles-Lewis,Van,Patrick,Larry

Janel Wildes

October 21, 2009

Derrick, I miss you so much! You were such a good friend and my thoughts and prayers are with your family. I too, am at a loss for words and wish very badly that you were still here. <3

Genaye Mowrer

October 21, 2009

D,
You were my rock, the person who would always be there for me NO MATTER WHAT! You helped grow me up into a strong willed woman and taught me how to make my heart match my head, and to be a great, supportive friend. The memories we share over our 14 years of friendship runs through my head all day, you were my BEST friend!!! I'll miss your roaring laughter when watching Family Guy, our trips to Subway after the gym, our late night fitness walks around the GV parking lot,and bumpin' the beats in the Bat Mobile! But most of all I'll miss your hugs and your daily texts and phone calls reminding me of how much love you had for me. I know you're with me all day, everyday and that you are holding my heart in your hands. I just can't believe your gone-I can close my eyes and imagine what it feels like to hug you, I hope that NEVAEH goes away!

Love you!
Naye Girl

Jennifer C.

October 21, 2009

I was so SHOCK when I heard the news of Derrick death! However I am a firm beleiver that he is in the hand of our Heavely Father, Derrick was truly an Angle and Jesus needed this Angle to help prepare for the things to come,and one of the most important part of this TERRIBLE thing that has happen to this the WONDERFUL Man is that WE ALL can say we have been touch by one of GOD'S true Angle and had the chance to know him and all of those memories we will charish from here on, I wil TRULY miss YOU, and to your Family May God Comfort you and keep you ALL in this time.... GOD BLESS

kimberly mestaz

October 21, 2009

R.I.P Derick. You are now in a better place then we are. You will be missed by alot of people here. i still see your smile on your face and i'll never forget it.missing you derrick.

kimberly mestaz

October 21, 2009

R.I.P Derrick. You left alots of friend and we will miss you.we know you are always with us in our life and heart.Thank you for being such a good friend.See you later.

Naomi Vernon

October 21, 2009

Joyce,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Derrick was an extremely kind and giving person who always thought of others. He was a great friend who was always there and will be forever missed.
May the love of those around you help you through the days ahead.

October 21, 2009

Joyce,
I'm so sorry to hear of Derricks passing. When we were neighbors Derrick helped me start my car on one frantic morning on my way to work. If anyone has ever had one of those frantic mornings when an angel shows up, you'll appreciate how much a kind act can be so grand. He was a good son.

I pray that you find comfort in knowing he will be greeted in the loving arms of God. I pray that your entire family be granted good hope through grace in this time of healing. This I pray in Jesus name, Amen

Love you lots Graham family!

Margo J. Sykes Merritt

stephanie gass

October 21, 2009

You will be missed very much. We will miss all the giant bear hugs.you were always like a little brother to me....my girls loved you like an uncle...im so at a loss for words...im so sorry....joyce i know you dont know me very well but my dad(tony garcia) knows you he said call him if you need to. We miss you D we will meet again one day!!!!

Rita Graham Crosby

October 21, 2009

Aunt Rita, knows that this is only a temporary so long, and that one of these days, I'll get another ones of those big old hugs, that made me feel like I was cherished and in one of the safest places in the world! Oh how I will miss you, but I know that you know that you are and always will be loved, and that for now we will have to rely on our memories of you, to try and fill in that big hole in our hearts that only our "gentle giant" could truly fill!

Sabrina Krenn

October 21, 2009

Derrick..
I'm still lost for words. 10 years WASN'T enough time, but i am thankful for everything. I'm going to miss you, you were a Great friend, always there for me, always made me smile even when i mad at the world.. LOL.. you were such a kind, loving, respectful person.. I'll always remember you, and love you Bateman!!

Nadine McDaniel-Allen (PG&E)

October 21, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

DeCaro Lori

October 21, 2009

I'VE HEARD TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING IS WONDERFUL AND THAT WAS YOU! MY LIFE WAS BLESSED TO HAVE KNOWN YOU. THE ONE WORD THAT DESCRIBES YOU TO ME IS REAL. I LOVE YOU AND ALWAYS WILL. REST IN PEACE BIG GUY. SASHA,ROB,BAXTER,MOLLY AND I WILL TRULY DEEPLY MISS YOU!

Gena Hanson

October 21, 2009

Joyce & Art

My prayers are with you and your family. As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Joanna Lawrence

October 21, 2009

I knew Derrick since about age 7... He had relatives that lived in my apartments across the street from Rivera. He would always play with me, swing me around and fix my nintendo when it wasn't working... I grew to know him as a sensitive young man with a huge heart... He would go out of his way to help anyone... he loved to have a good time and was very talented.... he will definitely be missed by all... Highneken, I know you are watching over us...

October 21, 2009

i miss u so much already...kysters

Cheryle Bradley

October 21, 2009

Joyce,
I am in shock, just know that God has a purpose for him greater than we can imagine. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

October 21, 2009

Joyce
I am so sorry to read about Derricks passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. If you need anything all you have to do is call. Be strong.

Becky and Megan Mitchell

Anotnio Aaron

October 21, 2009

Derrick will be missed by many. He was a, full of life, type of person and I have been thinking everyday, how this could have happened. I met Derrick about 4 and a half years ago and I remember being in a tough situation and him pretty much taking me in and giving me a chance to get back on my feet...Strangely enough, he is the reason I am now currently married to my wife right now. I can only remember a person that was funny, loving, and so many other things that I cannot even describe here. I love you Derrick....

Antonio Aaron

JENNIFER AARON

October 21, 2009

I CANT BELIEVE YOU ARE GONE!!! YOU ALWAYS MADE ME LAUGH AND DAZEE JUST LOVED HER AIRPLANE RIDES!! YOU WILL BE MISSED!!

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