Derek Mitchell

Derek Mitchell obituary, Park Forest, IL

Derek Mitchell

Derek Mitchell Obituary

Visit the Lain-Sullivan Funeral Directors website to view the full obituary.
Derek Lewis Mitchell was born on August 6,
1958 in Chicago, Illinois to the Late Samuel
Gage and Bernice Mitchell, both parents
preceded him in death. Derek's childhood was
filled with fun and lots of excitement.
He was the youngest child and his mother's only
son. Everyone loved and spoiled him!
Derek Lewis Mitchell accepted Christ at an early age.
He was a member of Apostolic Church of God under the
leadership of the Late Bishop Brazier for many years.
Early on, it was clear that Derek was born a gifted athlete
and loved sports. You could always find him playing ball.
He loved baseball, basketball and football. He won many
first place trophies throughout his childhood.
Derek attended Jacob A Riis Elementary School and
Richard T. Crane High School. Derek was a hard worker.
He worked not only one job, but two. Derek worked for
UPS many years. He even mentored many men that were
struggling with drug addiction. Derek was o ered a
position at Catholic Charities where he worked hard and
moved up to manager of his department. Derek also
worked part time at Kates Security. He worked for over 20
years until his health failed him. Then, he finally retired.
In the workplace, he was Derek. To his neighborhood
friends, he was known by his nickname, SAM.
Whatever name he was called, Derek had a love for his
family and friends like none other. On his o days, he
was always driving children and grandchildren around
town and finding something good to eat. Derek enjoyed
walking and playing with his dog Patches.
Everyone always remembered Derek's favorite phrase
"You can't do right during wrong".
After fighting a good fight, Derek transitioned
peacefully into eternal care of Jesus Christ our Lord
and Savior on January 29, 2025. He was preceded in
death by his parents and sister Linda Sue Mitchell. He
leaves to cherish wonderful memories, seven children,
Derek, Joanna (Antoine), Juarita (Marvin), Jarelle,
Bing (Lauren), Brikyle and Charron. Brothers: Samuel
(Mattie), Arthur, and Johnnie (Roslyn).
Sisters: Cynthia (Travis), Beatrice, Sandra (Gregory),
Darlene, and Jacqueline, seventeen grandchildren,
nieces, nephews, and a host of relatives and friends.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Derek, please visit our floral store.
Lain-Sullivan Funeral Directors

50 Westwood Dr., Park Forest, IL 60466-1419

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