Derek Lance Johnston

Derek Lance Johnston passed on April 30, 2026, at the age of 43. Born November 3, 1982, in Thomaston, Georgia, Derek lived in Milledgeville, Georgia. A Celebration of His Life will be held at Snow's Funerals & Cremations at Macon Memorial Park, 3969 Mercer University Drive, Macon, Georgia 31204, on May 5, 2026, at 11:00 am with visitation beginning at 10:00 am. Inurnment & Final Resting Place will take place at Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2617 Vinson Highway, Milledgeville, GA 31061. Josh Queen and Shane Gottwals will officiate. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the Wounded Warriors Foundation, PO Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675.

A proud U.S. Marine and combat veteran of the Second Battle of Fallujah (Operation Phantom Fury), he served his country with honor and carried the weight of that service long after returning home.

Derek was more than his struggles. He was a son who loved his mother deeply, a loyal friend, and a man who could bring both chaos and laughter into any room. He faced life with a fierce spirit, even in the midst of personal battles.

Though he entered many lives under different circumstances, Derek had a way of turning connections into meaningful relationships. He will be remembered for his honesty, his spirit, and the bond he shared with those closest to him.

Now at peace and reunited with his mama, Derek will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him. His memory will live on in the stories shared, the laughter remembered, and the lives he touched

Derek is survived by his father, Daniel "Danny" Johnston; 2 sisters, Dana Tingler (Jason) and Diana Renfroe (Branden); his grandfather, Benjamin Myrick; his nieces and nephews: Emilee Stevenson, Travis Tingler, Evan Stevenson, Anna Tingler, Emma Tingler, Ian Williamson, Lola Tingler, EllaKate Williamson, Brook Tingler, Grace Tingler, Harper Renfroe, and Hayes Renfroe, and two great nieces: Avery and Myrick Stevenson; several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Derek was preceded in death by his mother, Deborah Louise Myrick and his grandmother, Patricia Barringer.

Snow's @ Macon Memorial Park has charge of arrangements.