Derek Williams

Derek Tamarus Williams, who we affectionately called “Black,” “Snoop,” and “Dancing D,” was born in Hawaii on December 15, 1976, to Theodore and Linda Williams. He was the older brother of two children and was raised in Germany, North Carolina, and Maryland. Derek graduated from Suitland High School in Maryland in 1995.

As a child, Derek was a member and was baptized at Parkway Baptist Church, which later became Church of the Great Commission, and accepted Jesus Christ. Derek had a bright personality. He was smart, handsome, and naturally funny—the ultimate class clown who loved to dance, bringing endless joy and laughter to everyone around him. Derek possessed a rare, selfless generosity; even when he had very little for himself, he always found a way to give to others. Above all, he had a beautiful smile that could light up any room, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Derek shared a deeply special place in his heart for his great-grandmother, Mu, who helped raise him. She was a woman who didn’t play, and he deeply respected her tough love and guidance.

On December 2, 2000, Derek was united in marriage to Vasheena. From this blessed ten-year union, they were blessed with three beautiful children: Kristina, Kiara, and Derek Jr. Derek and Vasheena shared many special moments at Go-Go’s, sports bars, and football games. He took his kids to all their doctor’s appointments, the park, the zoo, and other exciting places. Derek was an incredibly proud father; whenever his children achieved a milestone, he would be moved to tears praising their intelligence and calling their mother to thank her for having them. He called his children each day to say, “I love you. Have a good day.”

His life was further enriched in later years when he and his best friend Nicola built a bond, and together they celebrated the birth of Zariah. Derek was an overprotective big bear that always told Zariah, “Respect yourself. Do not let anyone disrespect you. I love you.”

Nothing meant more to him than family; being a father was the best part of his life, and stepping into the role of “Pop Pop” to his grandson, Jalen, completely stole his heart.

Derek shared an amazing bond with his dad, who named him, and they spent countless hours talking about sports and sharing a love for the game. He and his mom shared a bond full of lively debates and endless love, always finding their way back to laughter. Derek loved his parents who exhibited unconditional love. He shared an unbreakable bond with his sister Tasha, whom he loved unconditionally and protected at all costs. Derek absolutely adored his three nieces, sharing a unique and deeply special relationship with each one. He could always be found helping whichever niece was left to do the dishes.

Derek was passionate about his beliefs; once his mind was set, he could not be swayed. He was a vibrant soul and a fast talker who brought life and color wherever he went, often seen rocking his bright colorful shirts with opposing shoes to match. Derek always made sure he got his haircuts faithfully to stay looking sharp. A massive sports fan, he lived to cheer on his beloved Commanders football team. His passion for creativity knew no bounds; his room was surrounded by art; he loved listening to timeless classics and Go-Go music and was happiest when he was in the studio laying down raps. Derek had a deep appreciation for Tupac’s music, a vibe that fueled his own dedication for writing and rapping.

Derek was employed at the Department of Agriculture as a forklift driver and enjoyed every moment. He stood up for those who needed help, which encouraged him to help individuals with disabilities. Derek worked with Train Up a Child Before and After School Program and loved taking the kids to the zoo and on other adventures.

He was devoted to his dog Rocko, who would sit outside of his window, looking in just so they could watch TV together. Rocko would often sleep outside his window, standing guard to keep Derek safe.

Derek was preceded in death by three great-grandmothers, Carrie Lee Robinson (Mu), Estelle McKinney, Zelphia West; grandfather, Roosevelt West Sr.; grandfather, Robert Williams; grandmother, Marie Williams; and two uncles, Bernard Williams and Robert Hobbs.

He leaves to cherish precious memories his children, Kristina, Kiara, Derek Jr., (mother, Vasheena Butler), Zariah, (mother, Nicola Graves); grandson, Jalen; father, Theodore Williams; mother, Linda Williams; sister, Natasha Webster (Cory); grandmother, Geraldine West; uncle, Larry Williams (Tika); aunt, Iris Clarke (Wesley); uncle, Roosevelt West Jr. (Jackie); uncle, Jeffery West (Teresa); uncle, Linwood West (Sharon); uncle, Terry West; great-aunt, Angeline Parris; aunt, Rosetta McCready (Mack); spiritual mother, Belinda Alexander (Paul); four nieces, Amari, Sakiyah, Zuri, Takia; devoted cousins, Terrell, Jovan, Leslie; special god sister, Rachelle Brackett; lifelong friends, Steve, Nardo, Kenny; and a host of family, cousins, and close friends.

Family visitation will be from 10:00am until time of service 11:00am on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 in the Chapel of Thornton Funeral Home, P.A., 3439 Livingston Road, Indian Head, Maryland 20640.