Derek James McBrayer

It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected death of our oldest son, Derek James McBrayer of Silver Springs, MD. Derek was 40 years old. He is preceded in death by grandparents June and Jim McBrayer and Oleta and D.J. Rivenbark.

Derek is survived by his parents Dana and Rob McBrayer, of Southport, NC, brother Alan McBrayer of Raleigh, and beloved daughter Mahalie McBrayer who lives with her mother, Nicole McClam of Queens, NY. We so appreciate the ICU staff at Medstar Hospital in DC for the respect, care and comfort provided Derek and his family.

Born and raised in Raleigh, Derek graduated from at Wake Forest Rolesville High in 1998. He then attended ECU in Greenville, NC. He earned his Chef designation at Anne Arundel Community College in Maryland and received a BSBA from the UM Eastern Shore while working full time at Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, MD. Derek worked hard to support his family and loved them unconditionally.

Gregarious, big hearted, a good listener, irreverently funny; Derek was happiest surrounded by friends and family. He loved to feed people whether at work or play. In remembrance, we think Derek would like for his friends to get together for a time of fine food and drink at a favorite establishment and of course, a toast to him.

Murphy Funeral Home in Arlington, Va. is entrusted with final arrangements. Please post memorials, stories, and pictures at murphy-fh.com