Derrick Edward Lewis' Obituary
Derrick Edward Lewis age 51, of Bartlett, TN, unexpectedly passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, December 3, 2025.
Derrick was born to Beverly Tillman Lewis and Ralph Edward Lewis on September 14, 1974 in Memphis, TN. Although born as almost every other baby on this day, Derrick was no average or ordinary individual. His love for life and people paired with the ability to make anyone smile, laugh and just feel better minutes after meeting him was almost a superpower.
His love of vocabulary and reading from a very young age made him very interesting. Not only could Derrick tell you new words in the English language, but he also spoke fluent Spanish. This was helpful when eating with him at the hundreds of Mexican restaurants he loved to frequent. He loved to make fun of loved ones in Spanish while eating knowing they could not distinguish his words. Eating dinner with Derrick was never boring.
Throughout his high-school years Derrick’s love for sports and the ability to excel in anything sports related was outstanding. His playing talents were phenomenal with Travelers baseball teams, going to state in wrestling, earning his football scholarship for college, and even skateboarding championships.
Derrick was not just an athlete. His vast love of music took him all over the country following his favorite band, Phish. He was also an avid fan of Grateful Dead but willing to listen to any music that stirred his soul. Derrick not only listened to music, he felt it.
An electrician by trade, Derrick was a hard worker and a selfless man. He was willing to share all he had with those he loved. He loved playing jokes and making those around him laugh. He had a smile and a countenance that lit up every corner of the room, unless his Titans were losing, or his video game failed him. Derrick, the gamer, rarely lost a game!
Derrick is preceded in death by his grandmother Denera Belton Tillman, his parents Beverly Tillman Lewis and Ralph Edward Lewis, his uncle Gene Brown Cochran, and his sister Stacie A Carlson.
Derrick is survived by his wife Rachel, two daughters Meadow and Allie, four stepchildren Rebecca (Austin), Gracie, Carter, and Molly. He also leaves his niece Piper and his beloved aunt, Sandra Cochran.
To honor Derrick today, please share the smile Derrick gave you with someone around you who did not get to experience the amazing individual that Derrick was. For we know, to meet and know Derrick was to love him.
What’s your fondest memory of Derrick?
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Share a story where Derrick's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Derrick you’ll never forget.
How did Derrick make you smile?