Derril Tidwell

DERRIL WAYNE TIDWELL, devoted husband, father and friend. Derril spent his final days making jokes, singing and reminiscing with family and friends. He passed peacefully into the arms of the Savior in his home on Saturday morning, June 16, 2012.

Derril was born on July 19, 1939 in Bellflower, California. He was raised in Long Beach by his parents, Lance Elmo Tidwell and Mary Ann Tidwell. He graduated from Wilson Senior High School in 1957. Derril went on to USC where he was awarded the Merit Book Award for Achievement and graduated second in his class with a Doctorate of Pharmacy in 1963. He enjoyed work as a Pharmacist for over 40-years.

He married Patricia Anne Miller of Columbus, Georgia on April 1, 1960 in Long Beach. They enjoyed 52-years of marriage, remaining best friends and lovers to present day. They enjoyed traveling together in their motor-home, and most recently a trip across the United States.

Derril cared deeply for his friends and family. He was viewed by everyone as a mentor and father-figure. He spent hours tutoring his children and grandchildren, and was the one-person that everyone looked to for advice.

Derril was handsome, humble, witty and loved by all. He found a way to bring laughter to any occasion. He was incredibly intelligent, many people referred to him as a walking calculator because he could solve even the most difficult math questions in his head. He spent a great deal of time reading and enjoyed everything from the classics to modern westerns and horror.

He had a very compassionate spirit and spent years teaching married couples communication techniques. He volunteered with Habitat For Humanity, building homes and planting yards for those less fortunate.

Derril was preceded in death by his parents Lance and Mary Tidwell. Derril leaves behind his wife of 52-years, Anne; son Derril Wayne Tidwell II and his wife Delia; daughter Gina Marie Jacoy, her husband Robert and grandchildren Jerritt Lance Van Es and Bree Anne Van Es; two brothers, Lance Tidwell, his wife Wendy and their children; Glenn Tidwell and his wife Kirsten and their children.

Memorial service will be held at Emmanuel Reform Church, 15941 Virginia Avenue, Paramount California on July 21, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. Reception immediately following.

Derril will be missed greatly by those who knew him. We have a great sense of joy knowing that we will see him again.