Dr. Charles Morton Derrickson

Dr. Charles Morton Derrickson, 98, of Morehead, Kentucky, passed away peacefully November 27, 2025. Born April 26, 1927, in Jackson, Kentucky, he was the beloved son of Algin and Pearl Sweeney Derrickson, and the devoted husband of Lena Myrtle Derrickson. In addition to his parents, Dr. Derrickson was preceded in death by his loving wife Myrtle of nearly seventy years, five brothers, four sisters, and his beloved grandson Michael.

Dr. Derrickson lived a life marked by service, education, and deep commitment to his community. He graduated from Breathitt County High School and then chose to serve his country by enlisting in the armed forces. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, he carried the values of dedication and integrity throughout his life. After his military service, he returned home to Jackson, Kentucky. While attending Lees College, he met the love of his life, Lena Myrtle Noble, whom he married March 19, 1949. He continued to pursue higher education with passion, earning bachelor's and master's degrees in agriculture from the University of Kentucky and later completing a doctorate at Michigan State University.

Dr. Derrickson came to Morehead State University in 1965 as a faculty member in the Agriculture Department. Due to his vision and his willingness to lead, he was soon appointed to the role of Agriculture Department Chair and then as Dean of the College of Applied Science and Technology. He served as dean of the college for over 15 years before retiring from MSU in 1993 to assume the role of President of Lees Community College. His career with MSU spanned approximately 28 years, with well over 20 of those years in an administrative capacity.

During his time as chair and dean at Morehead State, Dr. Derrickson was instrumental in developing the agricultural program where his influence shaped generations of students and strengthened the region's farming community. As part of this agricultural emphasis, Dr. Derrickson was the primary initiative behind the development of the University Farm, giving countless students a farm laboratory experience they would not have otherwise had. In the early to mid-1970s, the farm was named "The Derrickson Agricultural Complex" in honor of Dr. Derrickson's dedication to this very effective experiential learning opportunity for MSU students.

During his tenure as chair and dean of the College of Applied Science and Technology, Dr. Derrickson led the efforts to add many new degree programs including the Radiology and Veterinarian Technology programs. As a result of these leadership efforts, the Buffalo Trace Veterinary Medical Association endowed a scholarship in his name. This scholarship funding has assisted countless students over many years who wanted to pursue a veterinary technology degree.

In addition, in the early 1980s while still at Morehead State, Dr. Derrickson led the efforts to develop a mountaintop reclamation effort (the Martiki project) as his college worked with land developers in Martin County to convert an area of land ravaged from strip mining into a viable agricultural community.

His leadership extended beyond the university-he was a respected figure in the Morehead community, serving for many years on a number of boards and committees, many in prominent leadership roles including the Morehead Utility Plant Board for twelve years and as a founding member of the Morehead Rowan County Airport Board on which he served for 25 years before stepping down in 2024 with special recognition. In addition, Dr. Derrickson had served on the Morehead State University Foundation Board, the Morehead-Rowan County Economic Development Council, the Industrial Development Authority Board, the St. Claire Foundation Board, and as a member of the board of directors for the First National Bank of Jackson. An avid horse show enthusiast, he also served as President of the Central Kentucky Horse Show Association.

In addition, and consistent with his servant-leader philosophy, Dr. Derrickson was actively involved in local, regional, and statewide politics having served at one time as chairman of the Rowan County Democratic Party and by chairing multiple political candidate campaigns.

In recognition for his unwavering support of both Morehead State and his local community, Dr. Derrickson received numerous award recognitions, most prominent of which included the Morehead State University Founders Award and the Morehead-Rowan County Chamber of Commerce's Ora Cline award. Both of these awards are the highest level of recognition provided by these respective entities.

A man of many interests, Charles found joy in farming, fishing, golfing, and-above all-spending time with his family. Those who knew him will remember his steady presence, his wisdom, and the kindness that defined his life.

Dr. Derrickson, a long-standing member of the United Methodist Church, was the proud father of three children: Ralph Derrickson (Patti), Ada Ruth Albert (Bob), and Charlene Melzer (Craig). He was a devoted grandfather to nine grandchildren: Justin, Brian (Tamron), and Casey Derrickson; Michael Albert (deceased), Kayla (Mike) King, and Maegan (Steven) Camp; and Morgan (Mike) King, Lauren (Steve) Mirus and Matthew Melzer. In addition to his grandchildren, Dr. Derrickson is survived ty twelve great-grandchildren: Aubrey, Paxton, Chaz and Zaiden Derrickson; Rylee and Finn Camp, Juniper King; Liza, Molly Kate, and Hattie King; and Beau and Jack Mirus. He is also survived by one brother-in-law, Paul Owen Noble (Joyce), and numerous nieces and nephews.

A special thanks to his long-time caregivers: Angie Slone, D. J. Slone, and the staff at Life Care Center.

Dr. Charles Derrickson leaves behind a legacy of service, scholarship, and devotion to family and community. His impact will be felt for generations, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A celebration of life will be held 2 p.m. Monday, December 1, 2025, at Morehead United Methodist Church with Pastor Aaron Mansfield, Pastor Chris Basil, and Rocky Adkins officiating. Immediately following the service, full military honors will be presented by Morehead American Legion Post 126. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.

Grandsons and grandsons-in-law will serve as pallbearers.

Visitation will be 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, December 1, 2025, at Morehead United Methodist Church, 227 W. Main Street, Morehead, KY 40351.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Buffalo Trace Veterinary Medical Association Charles Derrickson Scholarship Fund at Morehead State University. The scholarship supports students studying Veterinary Technology at MSU. Contributions can be made online at alumni.moreheadstate.edu/derrickson Contributions is memory of Charles Derrickson are also suggested to the Morehead United Methodist Church, 227 W. Main Street, Morehead, KY 40351.

View memorial tribute or sign guestbook at www.northcuttandson.com