Derek Dean Sanso

Derek Dean Sanso left his earthly home to be with his Lord on September 20, 2023. Memorial Services will be September 29th at 11:00 AM at Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, TX. Visitation will be from 9:30 AM until 11:00 AM prior to the service.

Derek was born on June 5, 1968 in Winston Salem, North Carolina to Gary and Velma (Lane) Sanso. Derek graduated from Sherman High School in 1986 and joined the U.S. Marine Corps in February of 1987. Derek excelled in his educational accomplishments, obtaining honors in all areas.

Derek married the love of his life, Tammy, on December 4, 1993. Together, they have raised a wonderful young man, David. Their son is currently obtaining his degree in Cybersecurity following in his father’s footsteps in working to protect others.

Derek was a dedicated family man who cherished his family. He always made sure Tammy and David knew they came first with him and he loved them unconditionally. He also loved the Lord, serving at one time as a Men’s Group Leader in a Bible Study. He was a mentor to many and he loved teaching whenever he could. He had a special place in his heart for his dogs over the years and they loved him right back. In his down time, he enjoyed watching movies with Tammy and David, going to hockey games, working puzzles on his phone, and visiting different wineries in the area. He also enjoyed going to historical places and museums.

Derek began his law enforcement career in 1992 in Carrollton, Texas. He served in the Carrollton Police Department as a patrol officer, and eventually on the Carrollton PD tactical team and in the narcotics division. Derek was with Carrollton Police Department for just over seven years before joining the City of Frisco in November of 1999. Derek has served the citizens of Frisco for almost 25 years. Within the department, Derek has been appointed to numerous units. He served as a School Resource Officer with Frisco ISD, participated in the Crisis Negotiation Team, the SWAT Team, and most recently held the position as a Sworn Background Investigator in the Personnel Training Division. Additionally, Derek was a valuable mentor to new recruits and was on the peer support team as a vital resource to sworn and civilian colleagues. Throughout the years of service, Derek has earned numerous awards, certifications, and honors.

His family in blue describes Derek as an essential member of the team. His demeanor has always been an uplifting and encouraging one. Friends and colleagues reflect, “He has always been a man of few words and a strong listener. But when he does speak, we listen, and he often make us laugh.” Derek was a humble leader, and was known to do everything he could to help someone in need.

On September 1st, Derek was admitted to Baylor McKinney where they discovered a 5 cm brain tumor. Within days, the first surgery was performed where a majority of the tumor was removed. Days later, a follow up surgery was performed. The pathology report confirmed a diagnosis of an aggressive form of brain cancer. Derek, his family, and friends came together to find strength and peace during this difficult trial.

Preceded in death by his parents, Gary and Velma Sanso. Derek is survived by his wife, Tammy, son, David both of Sherman, TX, Sisters: Mechele Stoltz of Winston-Salem, North Carolina and Julie Hill of Greenwood, South Carolina; Nephews: Bradley (Ashley) Stoltz; Wesley (Jodi) Stoltz; Matthew Koehlar; Nieces: Caroline (Chris) West; Audrey Hill and her fiancé, Nathan Handleton. He is also survived by several great nieces and nephews in addition to extended family and friends.

Pallbearers are Sgt. Jon Skaehill, Joey Sowada, Sgt. David Brunson (ret.) Lt. Michael Choate, Greg Ward (Former Frisco Assistant Chief), Officer Mauricio Romero, Office Nathaniel Folk, Sgt. Ryan Thomas (Honor Guard).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Frisco Police Association, Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, TX or the Glioblastoma Foundation.

The family would like to convey a special “Thank You” to the Frisco Police Department, Frisco Police Association, Stonebriar Community Church, Chaplain Randy and Jennifer Creech, David and Toni Brunson, and Kelly Cicerello who have been a constant source of comfort and support.

A visitation for Derek will be held Friday, September 29, 2023 from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM at Stonebriar Community Church, 4801 Legendary Drive, Frisco, TX 75034, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.stonebriarfh.com for the Sanso family.