Derrick Stovall

Derrick Ladell Stovall was born on November 23, 1974, in Phoenix, Arizona, to Donna Irvin and Darrell Stovall Sr. He attended Edison Elementary School and T.G. Barr Elementary School.

Derrick held a special place in his heart for his mother; she was the light of his life. The love they shared created a bond he cherished throughout his life. He also admired his father, whom he regarded as his superhero. Derrick’s father joined the Marine Corps and later became a professional boxer. He was a man full of life, strength, and determination—leaving footprints Derrick hoped to one day follow.

At a young age, Derrick moved in with his paternal grandmother, Doris, who lovingly cared for and raised him. She played an important role in his life, providing him with love, guidance, and a stable home.

Derrick loved his family deeply, and the bonds he shared with them were an essential part of his life. His brother, Darrell Jr., was not only a sibling but also his best friend, and Derrick looked up to him, cherishing their special connection. He had a close bond with his cousin Leonard, affectionately called “Kango.” Additionally, Derrick shared a strong relationship with his sister, Amelia, who always wanted the very best for him. He also valued his relationship with his cousin Kathy.

Derrick had a quiet and gentle personality. He was an intelligent man who possessed a natural wisdom that was evident in the thoughtful way he expressed himself to others. Though he was not always the loudest voice in the room, his words carried meaning, and his presence left an impression on those who knew and loved him.

Derrick leaves to cherish his memory his beloved brother, Darrell Stovall Jr.; his sister, Amelia Finley; his uncles, Stanley Stovall (Yolanda Stovall), and Bryan Stovall; and his aunts, Karen Stovall and Jennifer Stovall. He also leaves his great-aunt, Shirley Clark; his special cousins, Kathy Worth and Leonard Irvin “Kango”; and Gary and Donnell Finley, whom he adored and cherished as brothers, along with a host of other loving family members and friends whose lives he touched.

Derrick was preceded in death by his parents, Donna Stovall and Darrell Stovall Sr.; his maternal grandmother, Pauline Irvin “Short-Short”; his paternal grandparents, Doris Stovall and Donovan Stovall; and his maternal aunt, Gwenda Irvin.

Derrick's life was defined not only by the years he lived, but also by the relationships he formed and the love he shared with his family. He will be remembered for his quiet spirit, his intelligence, his wisdom, and the special place he held in the hearts of those who loved him.

“I Am Free”

Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free,

I’m following the path God laid for me

I took his hand when I heard him call,

I turned my back and left it all

I could not stay another day,

To laugh, to love, to work or play

Tasks left undone must stay that way,

I’ve found that peace at the close of day

If my parting has left a void,

Then fill it with remembered joy

A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss,

Ah yes, these things I too will miss

Be not burdened with times of sorrow,

I wish for you the sunshine of tomorrow

My life’s been full, I’ve savored much,

Good friends, good times, my loved one’s touch

If my time seemed all too brief,

Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief

Lift up your heart, rejoice with me,

God wanted me now; He set me free.

By: Anne Lindgren Davison