Shirley Derrick

Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and treasured friend, Shirley Natter Derrick, returned to her heavenly home on October 29, 2013.Shirley is survived by Suzanne (Jerold) Johnson, Shauna (Grant) Faber, and Bradley Ralph (Becky) Derrick; thirteen grandchildren; and seventeen great-grandchildren. Shirley was born and raised, along with her sister, Elaine, in Salt Lake City by loving parents, Clara Louisa Emery and George Edwin Natter. She attended East High and the University of Utah where she met her lifelong companion, G. Ralph Derrick. Shirley and Ralph were married December 23, 1944. Ralph preceded her in death in 2006.Shirley was a lovely, unforgettable woman with a wonderful personality. She was a loving wife, mother, sister, and friend. Dad repeated many times that mom was fearless and never afraid to try new adventures. She loved travel and music, especially the opera. Mom was an immaculate housekeeper, great cook, and seamstress, but she especially loved the peacefulness of working in her beautiful garden. Our family is sincerely grateful for Mother’s lifelong family and friends as well as the doctors who cared for her. Mother had the courage to always persevere with hope. “The woman who creates and sustains a home, and under whose hands children grow up to be strong, is a creator.” We are quite certain that Dad’s heart sings like the Meadowlark because the love of his life has come home. With respect for Mother’s wishes, friends will be welcomed to visit with family on Monday, November 4, 2013 from 12:00 Noon - 1:00 PM at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary (3401 Highland Drive) and at the gravesite dedication next to George Ralph Derrick at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, please plant your favorite flower in your garden next spring.