Alan W. Derhodes

Alan W. “Wolford” DeRhodes, 81, of Blacklick, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, March 14, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born in Salem, Ohio, on January 23, 1945, to Harold and Helen (Heestand) DeRhodes. Whenever asked for his birthdate, Alan liked to reply, “12345,” a rare date for an exceptionally rare man.

Alan retired from the Lorillard Tobacco Company after more than 30 years of dedicated service. Even in retirement, his strong work ethic led him to take a position at Port Columbus Airport, where he drove the employee shuttle—work that perfectly suited his friendly, people-oriented nature. He also served in the Army Reserves during the Vietnam War.

Over the years, Alan bowled in several leagues and enjoyed the sport with both friends and family. He always took pride in having a nice car and cared for each one meticulously, from the Mustangs he owned early in life to the Audi he drove later on. Raised in a cat-loving home, he continued that tradition throughout his life with cats bearing names like Newport and Bubba. His most recent pet, a Yorkie pup named Rhett Butler, was shamelessly spoiled.

Alan’s proudest accomplishment was marrying into his family of females—his wife, Tammy, and daughters, Brittany, Courtney, and Devon. They often said Alan had rescued them, praising his humility and kindness as unmatched. Alan, however, would always say that he was the lucky one.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Helen; his brother, Raoul; and his daughter, Courtney.

He is survived by his wife, Tammy; daughters Brittany Bulger and Devon Brown (Alex); sister-in-law and best friend Deb McCorkle; sister Sherri; grandchildren Sean Bulger, Caleb Bulger, Lilly Miller, and Camden McCandless; and many loving family members and friends.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at a later date.