Dates
Ralph J. Derby Sr. "Papa" , 85, of San Angelo, TX, passed away on Wednesday, June 14, 2017. He was born in Mason, TX on December 19, 1931 to Bud Frank Derby and Gussie Smart Derby. Ralph was a graduate of San Angelo High School class of 1949. He was married to Betty Jean Hudson who was the mother of his children. On November 21, 1974 he married Bana Lee Stidevent and they enjoyed 36 years together. Ralph served his country in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1954, gaining the rank of Sergeant. After his honorable discharge, he worked as a staking engineer for several telecommunication and electric companies , finally retiring from Concho Valley Electric Co-op after 21 years of service. Ralph was a award winning artist and wood carver. He was well known for carving hummingbirds and giving them to his special friends. He was also an avid outdoorsman, and enjoyed hunting, fishing, collecting arrowheads, and exploring caves. He was a faithful Christian who loved God and his church, and he made it his mission to teach his grandchildren about the love of Christ. He loved to travel with his family as well as spend time enjoying sporting events and other activities in which his grandchildren participated. He is survived by his daughters: Teresa Smith of Mountain Home, TX and Susanne Strickland and husband Ronnie of Midland, TX and his son, JD Derby and wife Elayne of Kerrville, TX. He also leaves to cherish his memory 9 grandchildren, Aubrey, David, Laura, Blake, Brandon, Coryl, Blayze, Ravyn, and Wynter, 12 great-grandchildren, his brother, Frank Derby of San Angelo, TX and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Bana; his sister, Violet Kinyon and a son-in-law, Joel Smith. Services for Mr. Derby will be Saturday, June 17, 2017 at 10:00 A.M. in the Chapel of Johnson's Funeral Home and will be officiated by Paul Shero. Burial will follow at Johnson's Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorials be sent to San Angelo Christian Academy or the charity of your choice. Condolence messages for the family can be left at www.johnsons-funeralhome.com