Janis Marie Derrick

With profound love and heavy hearts, we remember Janis Marie Derrick, a beloved soul who touched many with her compassionate and resilient spirit. Born on February 14, 1952, Janis graced the earth with kindness and warmth for 72 years, until her passing on November 10, 2024.

A long-term resident of Fresno, California, Janis pursued higher education with some college studies at Laney College in Oakland, California. Her professional diligence led her into multiple industries, where she became a highly respected executive assistant. Achieving the position of President of the Union Oil Company Women’s Club was a testament to her leadership and commitment to empowering others. She dedicated much of her career to Union Oil Company of California in Los Angeles, California where she spent 22 years, several years at the Lumbar Association also in Los Angeles, California and Kaiser Permanente Fresno Medical Center in the Risk Management Department, retiring in March 2017 after 13 fruitful years.

Janis was a vibrant woman who savored every nuance of life. Her days often culminated in reading her Bible, writing, enjoying movies and television soap operas. Fond of adventures, she rode bicycles and actively preached fellowship through volunteering, always finding energy to lend a helping hand to others. Her heart found solace and purpose in donating to local and national charities and in spending cherished moments at her granddaughter's schools and church activities.

In treasured moments enveloped by sunlight and a serene atmosphere, Janis would wish to be, simply with people she loved. Known for relieving tension through her gentle spirit, harmony followed her every step. Faith was not solely a belief but a radiant light that guided and uplifted those fortunate to stand in her presence.

A sentiment learned throughout her years often echoed: lift your head with integrity, imbue your thoughts with patience, and as the seasons change, "keep on living." Her vibrant energy invoked tears of joys, propelled by the laughter shared watching a movie, or quietly nestled within stories brought to life in the books she loved.

Janis is survived by her daughter, Jovita Sain, her adored granddaughter Kurian Small; her siblings in memory include sister Imogene White, brothers Curtis Derrick, Carl Derrick, Clarence Derrick, sister Joyce Derrick-Cotton, sister Bertha Holland, sister Linda Holland, and brother Clifford Holland Jr., along with numerous nieces and nephews, all mourn an enclasped loss deeply tied within the bonds of kin. They remember her in relationship priceless beyond measure, whispering reassurances in remembrance of her enduring presence.

Preceded in her final journey by her loving parents, Elvira Derrick and Bonnie Lee Derrick, her brother, Alex Derrick, and sisters Bonnie Jean Derrick-Chiles, Bernice Brookter, Janis knows rest surrounded by heavenly peace.

A reflective goodbye will take place as follows:

- **Funeral Service at Stephens and Bean Funeral Chapel:** 202 North Teilman, Fresno, CA 937061310, December 6, 2024, from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm.

- **Committal Service at Belmont Memorial Park:** 201 N Teilman Ave, Fresno, CA, December 6, 2024, from 1:45 pm to 2:15 pm.

- **Visitation at Stephens and Bean Funeral Chapel:** December 5, 2024, from 4:00 pm to 7:30 pm.

As reflective souls pause to marvel at Janis’s sky-tracing life painting, crayon–bright images within heard stories combines lingering faithful song inspiring hearts never to forget: keep smiling— always, “keep on living”.