Derrick Dewayne May

Derrick Dewayne May, beloved husband, father, PawPaw, son, brother, and retired United States Army veteran, passed away peacefully at his home on May 10, 2026, at the age of 49.

Born on January 19, 1977, in Dallas, Texas, Derrick carried his Texas roots with pride throughout his life. If you knew Derrick, you knew how proud he was of where he came from, and he never missed a chance to remind people he was a Texan. He had a strong presence, a loyal heart, and a sense of humor that could make those around him laugh even during difficult moments. Derrick valued honesty, family, and hard work, and he carried those values with him in every season of life.

Above all else, Derrick loved his family deeply. He was a devoted husband to Shannon May and a loving father to Darius (Nicole) Britton and James Britton. One of his greatest joys in life was being “PawPaw” to Nalani and Kingston, a role he treasured with his whole heart. Whether through his guidance, humor, strength, or simply being present, Derrick made sure the people he loved knew they could always count on him. He found happiness in the everyday moments spent with family, and the memories he created with them will be cherished forever.

Derrick proudly served his country for 23 years in the United States Army before continuing his service to others as a Supervisor with the United States Postal Service. During his distinguished military career, he was recognized for his dedication, leadership, and honorable service through numerous awards and decorations, including the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, Iraq Campaign Medal with four campaign stars, Korea Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with “M” Device, and multiple Good Conduct and service awards recognizing his commitment throughout his years of military service. His service reflected the same loyalty, courage, and commitment that he showed to his family and friends every day. Those who served alongside him knew him as dependable, hardworking, and willing to put others before himself.

Derrick was known for the pride he took in everything he did. No matter the occasion, he liked to be dressed to the nines and carried himself with confidence and style every day. Outside of work, Derrick loved filling his home with music from all genres, creating an atmosphere full of energy, laughter, and memories with the people he loved most.

He loved watching football, especially cheering on the Dallas Cowboys, which felt fitting considering he was born in Dallas, Texas. Derrick also enjoyed watching movies and sharing that love with the people around him, often turning simple moments at home into lasting memories with family and friends.

He shared a special bond with his mother, Carnetha Bradford, and remained deeply connected to those closest to him throughout his life. Derrick will be remembered for his strength, his pride, his unwavering love for family, and the quiet way he showed up for the people he cared about most. He left an impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him, not only through the life he lived, but through the love and support he freely gave to others.

Derrick was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Lucille Walker and Clema Gray; his paternal grandparents, Lola Lewis and Wilbur Lewis Sr.; and his stepfather, Charles Bradford.

Derrick is survived by his loving wife, Shannon May; his sons, Darius (Nicole) Britton and James Britton; and his cherished grandchildren, Nalani and Kingston, who lovingly knew him as “PawPaw.”

He is also survived by his mother, Carnetha Bradford; his father, Wilbur Lewis; his siblings, Chenelle (Roderick) Aubrey, Shannon Williams, Brandi Morris-Jackson, and Ramon Hill; and his sisters-in-law, Stacey (Casey) Devirgiliis and Stefanie (Alex) Buley.

He also leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will continue to cherish his memory and the impact he had on their lives.

In honor of Derrick’s life, the family kindly requests that plants be sent in place of flowers.