Thomas W. Derby, Jr.

Thomas W. Derby, Jr., 79, of Hermann, MO, passed away Wednesday, May 6, 2020, at his home.

Tom was born in St. Louis, MO, on January 9, 1941, a son of the late Thomas William, Sr. & Rose (Stellman) Derby.
 
He was the husband of Brenda (Hafley) Derby.  They were united in marriage on April 24, 1982, at St. James UCC, Stony Hill, MO, and on February 17, 1990, at St. George Catholic Church, Hermann, MO, where he was a member.
 
Tom was an Eagle Scout and attended Normandy High School where he belonged to the Zephyr Car Club and was co-captain of the swim team and won many swimming awards. He was a union laborer in the construction industry and was a member of Locals 42 and 660. Also, he owned and operated beef cattle farms for many years. Anyone who knew Tom knew of his passion for hot rods, ‘55 Chevys in particular. He enjoyed drag racing and restoring hotrods. Most Wednesday’s you would see him in one of his hot rods eating breakfast at Sharp Corner with the guys. More than anything, family was most important to Tom. He loved getting together with his family as often as possible. He was the life of the party everywhere he went and most definitely one of a kind. He will be truly missed by his family and friends. 
 
Thomas is survived by his wife Brenda of the home, by a son, Thomas M. Derby, of St. Charles, MO, a daughter, Lynn Derby, of San Diego, CA, a son, Mark Derby, of Hermann, MO, a daughter, Michele Derby & fiance Dustin Winkelmann, of Rhineland, MO, a daughter, Lisa Uthlaut & husband Nick, of Hermann, MO, a daughter, Dawn Derby & significant other Kegan Hagedorn, of Hermann, MO, and by his granddaughter Cecilia Shepard, grandson Russell Uthlaut, and several other grandchildren.
 
A private memorial mass will be held at a later date. Memorials may be given to the family’s choice, c/o Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home.