Derald Eugene Eastman

Derald Eugene Eastman, 89, of Mobile, AL passed away peacefully on November 7, 2023. Derald was born in Dodge City, KS on May 15, 1934, to Claude and Bernice Eastman, both deceased. He grew up in the southwestern Kansas cities of Dodge City, Garden City, and Scott City with his brother Donald Eastman and sister Delores (Eastman) Fankhauser, both deceased.

He is survived by his wife, Lois, and children Michael, Sandra, Debra (Gary), Alton (Brenda), Brian, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In his youth, Derald developed a passion for art, especially painting, and thus an art career was in his future. He attended and graduated from the University of Kansas with a BA of Fine Arts in 1957.

Shortly after graduation from KU, he enlisted and served in the Army, being stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, MO. On April 7, 1957, he married Mary Lou Johnson, and they had three children together: Michael Eastman, Sandra Eastman, and Debra (Eastman) Nicholson. Later, he met Lois Jean Stephens and they married on February 13, 1980. Together, they raised Alton Stephens, Craig Stephens (deceased), and Brian Rivers.

Following his service in the Army, Derald began his career in advertising as a Layout Artist in 1960 with Jones Store, Co in Kansas City, MO. Then, in 1967, he transferred to Gayfers Department Store in Mobile, AL and retired in 1995.

Throughout his career in advertising, Derald continued to create works of art. He became well known for painting figures, portraits, cityscapes, landscapes, floral, still life and seascapes. After retirement, his dream of spending time just creating works of art became a reality which he truly enjoyed. Many pieces have been displayed in various galleries, as well as ones he did for family and friends. As a member of the art community, in and around Mobile, his works have been recognized in many shows and received numerous awards. He also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and helped build several homes. On one build, he worked with former President Jimmy Carter and even joined the President for dinner. In addition to Habitat for Humanity, he passionately served on the board of the United Cerebral Palsy Foundation of Mobile.

Additionally, Derald enjoyed following his alma mater’s basketball team, the KU Jayhawks and he almost never missed a game. He loved learning and sharing history, fueling his thirst for travel, which is something that he and Lois enjoyed doing together over the years.

He was a pillar of love and support for his family, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, wisdom, and inspiration. May his memory continue to shine in the hearts of those he touched.

A memorial service will be held at Christ Anglican Church on Friday, November 17, 2023, at 9 a.m. Inurnment will follow at the Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Condolences may be offered at www.radneyfuneralhome-mobile.com.