Russell E. Derby

Of Jackson and later Spring Arbor, MI. Born on December 26, 1918, passed quietly away on May 6, 2011 with Southern Care Hospice and his family at his side. Music and family were major pieces of Russ Derby's life. He went on the road as a young man touring the country with various bands playing his trumpet to support his family. His groups fronted many of the major bands in the nation at the time, including Tommy Dorsey and The Four Freshman. He later returned to Jackson where he founded his own band, The Russ Derby Orchestra. He played his "big band music" for many years at various venues in southern Michigan, Ohio and Indiana on weekends, while working full-time at Kelsey-Hayes during the week. He retired from Kelsey-Hayes (TRW) in 1981 after 41 years of service. He worked his way up from a factory worker to his last position as employment director. He married his one and only true love, Joan E. Derby on October 4, 1941. She preceded him in death on April 28, 2002. He was also preceded in death by an infant daughter, Valerie Ann. Russ is survived by a son, Randall (Diane) of Jackson; three grandsons, Todd (Jana) Derby of Minneola, FL, David (Ashley) Gordon and Troy Derby all of Jackson. Russ also leaves five great-grandchildren, Haley, Daymien and Kylee Derby all of Jackson, Tyler Derby of Florida and Elijah Gordon of Jackson. Russ was also looking forward to the birth of twin great-grandchildren, Baby A and Baby B Gordon, expected later this year. He will also be missed by Cody, the grand-dog and Angie, his beloved cat. Dad, Papa and Great-Papa you will be missed by all of your family. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, May 10, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. A visitation will be held on Monday, 6 to 8 p.m. and again on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until time of service, with burial at Woodlawn Cemetery, Leslie, MI. The Derby family would like to sincerely thank Southern Care Hospice and Spring Arbor Assisted Living for all of their support during this difficult time. Contributions may be made to Southern Care Hospice of Jackson.

Chas. J. Burden & Son Funeral Home

1806 E. Michigan Avenue

Jackson, Michigan 49202

(517) 784-3104