Leo Wilfred Derrick

 Leo Wilfred Derrick, age 80, of Holt, Florida, passed away Monday morning, September 22, 2025, at his home in the presence of his loving family.

Leo, known equally as Wilfred, was born in Andalusia, Alabama and was a long-time resident of Holt. He dedicated many years to the construction industry as an ironworker, then took pride in managing the family junkyard. He enjoyed helping friends, neighbors, and strangers alike find exactly what they needed. He could tell you exactly which tree, or 1967 Valiant to turn at to find your treasure. He was widowed after 44 years of devoted marriage to his precious wife, Nelda. Leo wore many hats but cherished his greatest role as ringmaster to his five children-Paula, Lisa, Jeanie, Leo and Larry-who added 17 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren to the circus. He loved hunting; you could find him in the woods in Florida or Kentucky. He considered every trip successful, with or without an 8-point, as long as he was spending time with family. (He would add, however, it’s always better with at least one 8-point!) Leo was a member of Church of Christ in Baker.

Leo was preceded in death by his loving wife Nelda Paulette Taylor Derrick, his parents, Leo Wiley and Maezella Jones Derrick, and his sister, Rebecca Bryant.

Leo is survived by his sons, Leo Derrick and wife Jennifer, Larry Derrick and wife Tiffany, all of Holt; his daughters, Paula Mashburn and husband Mike, of Milton, Lisa Mashburn of Holt, and Jeanie Barrow, also of Holt; his sister, Renee Ray, 17 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

A time of visitation will be held from 12:30 - 2 PM Thursday, September 25, 2025, at the chapel of Whitehurst Powell Funeral Home in Crestview. Funeral services will follow visitation at 2 PM, with Minister Glenn Howze officiating. Burial will follow at Pilgrim Rest Cemetery in Baker.

Leo’s…Daddy’s…Paw-paw’s funny noises, wiggling ears, laughter and camouflage jacket will long live in the memories of all who knew him.

Arrangements are entrusted to Whitehurst Powell Funeral Home in Crestview. Guest book and condolences are available online at www.whitehurstpowellfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Leo Wilfred Derrick, please visit our floral store.