Derek Arlington Nurse

July 7,1946 – August 3, 2023

Derek Arlington Nurse, cherished son of Oscar Edgar and Millicent Ameila Nurse, loving husband to Frances, and dedicated father to Barbara, Tanya, and Aisha. He was a fun-loving brother to Claire, Corinne, Thora, Patricia (Pinky), Barbara, George, Ralph, Richard, Oscar Jr., William. He shared a special bond with his cousins Pearl, Margaret, Jennifer, and Cecil and all their wonderful children. Derek’s vibrant spirit also touched the lives of many nieces and nephews as an energetic and vocal uncle.

Born on July 7, 1946, in Georgetown, British Guyana, Derek’s childhood was marked by playful antics and a mischievous nature. His educational journey led him from Guyana to the United States in which he pursued alternative secondary education. In his early 20s, he took the brave step of working on ships in Trinidad before immigrating to the United States, driven by the desire to secure a future for his family. After some time in the United States, he met Frances, they fell in love, and their journey through life together spanned 45 years. They enjoyed traveling and celebrating special moments with family and friends.

Derek’s diverse skills, particularly his aptitude for math, paved the way for a series of accounting positions within the Cook County Forest Preserve, where he became known for his number-crunching skills, pragmatic work ethic, and hearty laughter.

His unwavering spirituality held a significant place in Derek’s life; he was a member of St. Christopher’s Church for over a decade and later, Fellowship Baptist Church during his time in Chicago. In 2010, he deepened his spiritual relationship with God.

Amidst his various interests, Derek found his greatest joy in the company of family and friends. He had an affinity for plays, concerts, festivals, and sporting events, occasionally winning concert tickets through radio contests. He valued cultural exposure, believing it to be essential, and made it his mission to share this value through his cooking and family gatherings. His solution to problems and solace for souls often came in the form of a hearty Guyanese meal.

Beyond his personal pursuits, Derek was an active supporter of local politics. His involvement included annual volunteer work during political events and active participation in campaign committees.

Derek’s legacy was rooted in the conviction that education was invaluable. He tirelessly encouraged the next generation of his family to pursue knowledge, for he believed it to be an unshakable possession.

Derek’s life didn’t come to an end with his death on Thursday August 3, 2023; he has only crossed over into another phase awaiting the magnificent reunion where we will all be with the Lord forever. He was preceded in death by his sisters Patricia (Pinky) and Barbara, his brothers Oscar Jr., Ralph, Richard, William (Willie), and his mother and father.

Derek’s memory is a testament to his infectious laughter, distinct style, and his knack for uniting loved ones. His impact lives on through his children and their spouses, grandchildren: Dawnette, Anael, Lizzane, Christopher, Carol, Covaughn, Miracle, Cheyenne, Samuel, Joshua, Elizabeth, and Sarah, and great-grandchildren: Ka’liyah, Amir, Dedra, Daniel, Daniella, Dahlia, Fracena, and Rihanna.

Visitation is Friday, August 25th, 2023, at Woodlawn Funeral Home, 7750 West Cermak Road, Forest Park, Illinois 60130 from 9am to 11am. Funeral service to follow from 11am to 1pm. Interment to follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park.

Funeral Service will be live streamed -- clink on link below.

https://www.asimplestreaming.com/danurse/

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.woodlawnchicago.com for the Nurse family.