Larry Derrick, 61, died after battling throat cancer for seven months.
Larry was a reference librarian at the Dallas Morning News during the 1990s and early 2000s at its former building on Young Street. In his memory, the newspaper flew the Texas state flag at half staff on Sunday, July 18.
In its story remembering Larry, the News said, “He’s remembered by loved ones and former colleagues as a patient and unflappable man who was passionate about supporting and helping others, both in everyday life and in his role helping reporters at The News with research.”
Friends at the Morning News described him as a gentle giant and easygoing, always with a smile on his face.
He grew up in Garland and graduated from Garland High School where, at 6 feet 7 inches, he played basketball.
In the LGBT community, he was active with Silver Pride. Each year he participated in LifeWalk and every Saturday he was at Cathedral of Hope serving meals to the homeless.
He had five siblings and is survived by his brother, Neil, and two sisters, Carol and Shirley.
His sister Carol told the News that he was the type of person “who usually went overboard on Christmas presents, and his younger relatives loved spending time with him ‘because they knew he was going to buy them something.’”
A balloon release was held in his memory on July 17 at Garland High School. On Aug. 15, a memorial service will follow Sunday morning service at Lift Community Church, 3015 Gulden Lane.
In lieu of flowers, friends suggest a donation to Silver Pride, LifeWalk or Dallas Hope Charities. His family suggests a donation to Cancer Treatment Centers of America.
I wish I had known him because he seemed like a special guy.
I had Known, Larry for many years. He is a great man, Smart, Funny, Upfront, Dedicated, Supportive & Honest. I considered Larry one of my Best Friends Ever. He will truly be missed. R.I.P. My Brother from another mother!
Larry Derrick my Sergeant and he called his Captain because I started LifeWalk Team Remembrance. Larry helped raise a lot of monies he always made my day with his gentle giant smile. I’ll miss you everyday thank you for the friendship. You touched the tears of God.
When the name Larry Derrick is mentioned.Sanger Harris Downtown Dallas the record department he became a true friend after hearing me sing a tune looking for the recording artist and he knew the song.The rest is history..Infinity Always..Luv you in a place where there is no space and time.