OAK ISLAND — Charles P. Derrick, age 73, of Oak Island, NC passed away on Friday, November 17, 2023, in the Lower Cape Fear Life Care Center, “Brunswick House” following a time of declining health.
Charles was born in Charlotte, NC on June 9, 1950, and was one of three children born to the late Charles E. Derrick, Jr. and Evelyn Virginia Bickley.
Charles graduated from South Mecklenburg High School. Soon after, he became a member of the United States Army Reserve and proudly served his country for ten years. Charles retired after 30 years of Municipal Public Works. He served as the Public Works Director for the Town of Topsail Beach, Carteret County, and the Town of Long Beach. During his tenure in Long Beach—now Oak Island— Charles was affiliated with the Police Department Dive Team, Volunteer Fire Department, and Reserve Police. Charles was an avid sportsman that included being Captain of the Mean Jean for ten years, followed by his own vessel, Cool Change. He was also a member of the McDuffie Hunting Club in Pender County.
Besides his family, Charles has had a lifelong love of the outdoors, which included hunting, fishing, diving, and NASCAR.
Surviving are his wife of 41 years, Iris Gainey Derrick; two daughters, Stacie Byford (Donald) of Sumter, SC and Karyn Snyder (Al) of Bolivia, NC; two brothers, Robert “Bobby” Derrick (Sherry) of Charlotte, NC, and David Derrick of Southport, NC; grandchildren, Christian, James, Averie, Tory, Haley, Ayden, and Bryce that were so special to their “Poppy.” Also, a number of nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life service is being planned and will be announced in the coming days.
The family asks that anyone wishing to honor Charles, please consider donating to Lower Cape Fear Life Care, “Brunswick House”, 955 Mercy Lane, Bolivia, NC 28422 for the excellent and thoughtful care given to Charles.
Online condolences are encouraged and may be sent here.
