John Derby Obituary
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He continued his love for music and was Director of Operations at Memphis Symphony Orchestra, and Director of Operations at Opera Memphis.
He had a passion for animals and also served as a Director of the Memphis Humane Society and Director of Springfield Humane Society. John also served his community as a board member for the Chadwick Fire Department. Along with being an avid musician, John was a photographer, birdwatcher, star gazer, cat lover and comic collector. He was a dedicated member of AA and the Trusted Servants. Recently John earned his 4-year sobriety chip.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Ann Derby; and a brother Rex Derby.
John is survived by daughter Kim Wilson and grandchildren Brittany, Baylee and BJ; daughter Becky Forrester and grandchildren Claira, Wendy, Haven and Calvin; step-daughter Erin Jackson and grandchildren Caleb, Hannah, Joshua and David; a sister, Pam Fossett, and a brother Kennan Derby.
A graveside memorial will be held 3:00 p.m. on November 10, 2022 at Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Springfield with full Military Honors. Cremation and service arrangements are under the direction of Holden Cremation and Funeral Service, Sparta.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Jim Richards
October 26, 2024
2 years later still think about John. In my reverie the other day was recalling shedding tunes in the afternoon at Navy Band Orlando with Gary Seitz, Pat Verner,me and Herb. Was always ...not only fun, but what a great way to build your chops. Ah when we were young! Rest now shipmate
Jim Richards
MUCS, USN, ret.
Jim Richards
April 20, 2023
I had the pleasure of serving with "Herby" in Orlando at the Naval Training Center Band and at the Naval Academy Band in Annapolis. John was an outstanding musician and I learned so much by spending afternoons practicing together in Orlando.
We also were part of a barbershop quartet we put together at the band.... John was a funny warm individual who had many life stories he was happy to share. I will miss him.
Rest now shipmate... and save me a seat in the band.
Jim Richards
MUCS, USN, ret.
Greg Nevil MUC, USN (RET)
November 5, 2022
I am pained by the unhappy news of John's passing. My life was certainly made richer by my association with him as a Navy Musician. We had many a delightful chat, and he possessed, in my view, an easy-going nature as well as extraordinary range of interests, and wisdoms beyond his youth. He played so often with a smile on that Ovation. I'm not surprised to learn of his varied accomplishments and affiliations throughout his lifetime - indeed worthy of admiration and celebration. My best to everyone who knew John and benefitted from his personable nature and his musical prowess.
Robert Ferreira
November 3, 2022
I pray you will rest-in-peace my friend. It was an honor serving with you and performing with you. My most heartfelt condolences to the family. He will be sorely missed.
Bobby Ferreira
Newport, R.I.
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Bob Gaffney
November 2, 2022
May you Rest in Peace, John. You were a wonderful Chief. Thank you for everything in Memphis and Sixth Fleet!
Jerry Ascione
November 2, 2022
My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of John Derby. This is a most difficult time and my heart is with everyone. I knew John from the Naval Academy Band. We traveled extensively with the Electric Brigade and played so many concerts and gigs together. I had, I have and will always posses the highest regard for his musicianship. It was a grand pleasure to share the stage with him. In the midst of the six of us who are the plank owners of the Electric Brigade, John was indeed the peacekeeper. Tempers flared, egos and opinions collided. John always managed to see beyond that and casually bring us all back to task. He was and is, a great human being. I will greatly miss him. Peace to all who grieve for him. Much love to you my friend, Jerry Ascione.
Frank Mullen III, Webmaster, NMA
November 2, 2022
I offer the condolences of the Navy Musicians Association to the family of a fine musician, dedicated leader, and stalwart friend. Senior Chief Derby: Rest your oars, shipmate; we have the watch.
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