Derek Jermaine McMillon was born to his parents, Samuel and Dian McMillon on November 21, 1979 at Rose Medical Hospital in Denver, Colorado. He was raised with his sister Erica, whom he was very close with. As a child, Derek enjoyed playing basketball, deer and elk hunting, fishing and collecting sports cards. From an early age, Derek developed a smile that would light up any room he entered. He had an innate ability to make people feel important and valued loyalty.

Derek matriculated through Denver Public Schools. He began his education at Loyola and Knight Academy before attending Hill Middle School and Smiley Middle School. In the 6th grade he was classified as gifted and talented and remained in advanced classes through the remainder of his educational career. He completed his high school education at East High School and Manual High School. Derek was a part of Denver’s Excellence in Education Program with a concentration in math and science. He received numerous academic awards throughout his educational career. It goes without saying, that Derek was extremely intelligent; although he did not attend college, he often helped his sister with her college math and business statistics courses.

Derek was a dedicated professional who worked in production at Sheffield Metals International, as well as a lab technician at Inotiv, where his commitment to his work reflected his strong character. Most recently, Derek worked as a fleet driver and transporter for various car rental companies.

His love for life was evident in his hobbies, particularly in fishing and spending quality time with his friends, including Henry, Chad, and Keith. Derek was a very talented basketball player who was blessed with the opportunity to travel across the U.S. playing in tournaments. He was also apart of Joint Effort under the leadership of coach John Bailey. Most importantly, Derek cherished time spent with family. There was nothing that he wouldn’t do for his family and friends, and he cared deeply about giving full effort into everything he took on.

Growing up Derek was an active member of Union Missionary Baptist Church, where he took great pride in his involvement with the Youth Movement, Junior Deacons, and Junior Usher Board. These experiences shaped him into the beloved individual he was.

He gained an additional source of pride and joy with the addition of his niece, McKenzie Livingston, whom he affectionately called “McKay”. She was the apple of his eye, and Derek spoiled her rotten.

He is survived by his parents, Sam and Dian McMillon; his sister, Erica McMillon, his niece, McKenzie Livingston; and a host of aunts, uncles and cousins. His family and friends will forever remember his kindness, joyful spirit, and the light he brought into their lives.