Search by Name

Search by Name

BORN

1964

DIED

2026

FUNERAL HOME

Thomas M. Smith Funeral Home & Crematory, Ltd.

930 Center Ave

Blawnox, Pennsylvania

John Derringer Obituary

John "Johnny" Derringer, 61, of Sewickley, passed away on Jan. 20, 2026. Born Nov. 20, 1964, in Creighton, he was the son of the late Richard and Celestine Derringer. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as being held and cuddled, and being sung nursery rhymes. His love for music and his gentle spirit touched the hearts of many throughout his life. At the age of 44, Johnny found a second family at The Verland Foundation in Penn Hills and later at the Sewickley Campus. It was there that he received an outpouring of love and care that enriched his life. The family extends their deepest gratitude to the dedicated staff and the entire Verland community. Johnny's memory will forever be cherished by his devoted sister, Carol Ann "Sis" (Paul) Barr; brother, Al (Toni) Derringer; and several nieces and nephews. There will be no visitation. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Professional services entrusted to THOMAS M. SMITH FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY LTD., 930 Center Ave., Blawnox, PA, 15238, www.thomasmsmithfuneralhome.com. Memorial contributions can be made to The Verland Foundation at 212 Iris Road, Sewickley, PA 15143, or through their website at www.verland.org/how-to-support-verland/.

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

Published by Tribune Review on Jan. 28, 2026.

Memories and Condolences
for John Derringer

Not sure what to say?





2 Entries

Bill Cogley

January 28, 2026

Sis and family, so sorry to hear of Johnny's passing. You were a great sister to him over the years. May he rest in peace.

Greg Kovalchick

January 28, 2026

Al, Toni, and Family, So sorry to read of your brother's passing. Yes for sure, the simple pleasures of life that he so enjoyed is what makes life so meaningful. God bless him and all of you at this time.

Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results

Make a Donation
in John Derringer's name

Memorial Events
for John Derringer

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Thomas M. Smith Funeral Home & Crematory, Ltd.

930 Center Ave, Blawnox, PA 15238

How to support John's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor John Derringer's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more