My Story 

Thank you for gathering this 23rd day of February 2021, not to recognize what is the ending of earthly life, but to celebrate the beginning of my promised everlasting life. 

I was born Derek Russell Wright on May 10th, 1969, in Miami, Florida to Georgina Wright and Wilbur McKham. I was the youngest of four children. I grew up as any other African American male in Miami, going to school by day and playing football and kick ball in the streets in the afternoon. I attended Miami–Dade County Public Schools, graduating from Miami Norland Senior High in 1988.. 

From an early age until my passing, I was rooted in the church. My mother instilled in us the love of God and the teachings of His Word. My home church was St. Matthews M.B. Church under the leadership of Reverend Philip Clark Jr. There I recall singing in the choir and serving on the usher board. One of my fondest memories was of Sister Anna Forbes, a well–loved mother of the youth, who took us under her wing and imparted great wisdom into us. Over the years, I was blessed by the teachings of Reverend Gaston E. Smith, Sr., Pastor/Teacher, Friendship M.B. Church. I attended Peace M.B. Church under the leadership of Reverend Tracy L. McCloud, and my most recent years, Peaceful Zion M.B. Church under the Servant leadership of Reverend Dr. C.P. Preston, Jr. 

I worked a few jobs, to include working at my family‘s restaurant, “Mama Gina‘s.” I developed an interest in cooking and this job helped hone my skills – A Master Chef in the Making. My specialties included pigeon peas and rice, potato salad, green beans, stewed conch and so many other mouthwatering dishes. As most who knew me would know, I had a strong desire to excel and was not afraid to pursue various job interests. I worked as a Surgical Technician at Cleveland Clinic, and I managed “Club LaCage” along with my brothers Terry and Carnell. However, my true passion was helping families in their hour of bereavement. As the Operations Manager at Wright and Young Funeral Home, alongside Terry, Jackie, Stephanie, Carnell and Pernell, I was afforded that opportunity. I served and met some warm-hearted families and befriended some amazing people, like Keisha from Jackson Memorial and Barbara from the Miami–Dade County Medical Examiner‘s Office. We had an excellent business relationship and a great friendship too! I learned so much about operating a business with my siblings. Together, we served with dignity, compassion and love. I would like to think we made Wright and Young Funeral Home what it is today – A Great Success! ... 

As you remember me in your own way, remember the laughs we shared and memories we made. Of course, you will remember my ‘straight to the point‘ and ‘take care of business‘ demeanor – but you must know, it was done only to render what I expected of myself and those around me “to always perform in the spirit of excellence!” Remember my zest for life, my love of different genres of music, dancing, joking around, and my unwavering love for Christ. 

On February 17th, 2021, God decided my work on earth was done and called me to my heavenly home. Let no tears fall for me, as I have lived a good life, had amazing experiences, made countless friends, and in the words of my favorite song: “God Has Been Good to Me!” Welcoming me into Heaven are my mother and father, my sister Sonja, my brother Darryl, grandma, aunts and uncles. To my wife, Violette, and son, Andrew “Papi” Hudson, the day God placed you in my life, my life‘s meaning and purpose changed. I was proud to be your father. You were absolutely my heartbeat and my greatest joy! Press forward son, continue to be great and make me proud! To my siblings: Stephanie (Willie) Morris, Dr. Catherine McKham, Wilda McKham, Argentina Richards, Terry Wright, Jacqueline (John) Young, and the twins Carnell and Pernell (Julie) Sumner, I adored each of you. Terry, you, and I shared a special bond. I looked up to you in so many ways and I thank you for the memories. You got it from here bruh! Soar high, your limit is beyond the sky. To my uncles, Gerald Wright, Roddy (Gwendolyn) Evans and aunt Lucille Modest, thanks for being great examples. To my Godparents, Lloyd and Rosalyn Rogers, thank you for your unwavering support and love. To my brother–in–law, Claude St. Gerald, thank you for brotherly love. To my nieces and nephews: Floyd, Georgina, Tamara, Dominque, Jordan, Maurice, Christopher, Oronde, Shanteria, Shawana, Miracle, Darren, Leonard, Carnell Jr., Ashley, Chelsea, Malik, Denzel and Keagan – always remember how much Uncle loved you! To my special niece, Tamara, thank you for giving me my God–Daughter, my precious jewel, Amora. To my God–Sisters and God–Brothers: Kim, Kystal, Shirley, Lisa, Mike B., Terry P. and Desmond, you were my bonus siblings, I love you. To my favorite cousin, Pastor Joann Smith, you prayed for me and opened you doors for all family occasions. Lastly to my sister–in–law Lisa, to my friend, Jimmie Brown and to my Niece, Georgina, you took great care of me in my final days – thank you for giving your love so freely. Finally, to my extended family at Wright and Young, other family members and countless friends, remember my earthly life may have ended – but my love for you will last forever! Until we meet again.

• Date of Birth: 5/10/1969
• Date of Death: 2/17/2021
• Country of Residence: USA
• First Name: Derek
• Deceased Middle or Maiden Name: R.
• Last Name: Wright
• 
• Name of Next of Kin: Terry Wright
• Location of First Viewing: Wright and Young Funeral Home 15332 NW 7th Avenue, Miami, Florida 33169
• Date of First Viewing: 2/22/2021
• Time of Pubic Viewing: 1PM-6PM
• Location of Memorial Service :

  Peaceful Zion Missionary Baptist
  2400 NW 68th Street
  Miami, Florida 33147

• Funeral Date & Time: 2/23/2021 at 1:00 PM
• Live Stream and Funeral Service Link:
• 2nd Platinum Link:
• Name of Cemetery: Caballero Rivero Dade Memorial Park
• Cemetery Information:

  1301 OpaLocka Blvd
  Miami, Florida 33167