Derrick Alan Black

Beloved husband of Jane Rosenfield Black; devoted father of Brian (Shreya) Black, Samantha (Deven) McMorrow, and Jordan (Katie) Black; loving grandfather of Sophia Black; beloved son of Leslyn (1935 – 2022) and Pomala (Morin) Black; brother of Landy (Dody) Black, Kamela (Jim) Kordik, and Lynn (Natalie) Black; and loving uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Derrick was born in Dayton, Ohio on December 11, 1959 and graduated from Centerville High School in 1978. He graduated from The Ohio State University in 1983 with a degree in Industrial Engineering and received his MBA from the University of Dayton. He spent his career in Manufacturing, beginning as an intern at General Motors in Dayton, OH and retiring as Executive Vice President of Operations from Rinnai America Corporation in Peachtree City, GA. Derrick’s business travels took him to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and Germany, among others.

He will be remembered for his leadership, wisdom, problem-solving skills, and unwavering guidance - both in his professional life and at home. He was married to his wife Jane for 39 years and was a very proud, devoted and loving father to his three children. A loyal Ohio State fan, he loved nothing more than attending or watching Ohio State football games with his family and friends. He enjoyed golf, 5-star dining, the beach, dear friends and good scotch. Derrick’s warm personality, charm and humor lit up every room. He never met a stranger. He embraced life and was truly and deeply loved.

A private service was held at the home of Derrick and Jane in Mesa, AZ. A commemorative brick will be installed in his memory at the "Shoe" (Ohio Stadium) at The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH. Contributions can be made in his memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.