William McClure Derrickson

By Editor | March 17, 2026 |

William McClure Derrickson, Jr., aged 74, a cherished pillar of his community and a loving patriarch of a large and vibrant family, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, in Mt. Vernon, Kentucky. Born on March 3, 1952, in Little Rock, Kentucky, William was the treasured son of William McClure Derrickson, Sr. and Ella Lucille Botts Derrickson, who preceded him in death as did his beloved wife, Karen Denise Fogle Derrickson; son, Timothy Dewayne Derrickson and two sisters, Betty Brack and Ella Higgins.
Known for his kind nature and faith-filled life, William was a beacon of hope and strength to all who knew him. He dedicated his career to working as a Transmission Specialist Mechanic, a profession where he not only showcased his handy skills but also his steadfast work ethic. William’s devotion extended beyond his professional life as a proud and active member of the Prodigal’s House church, where he grew his love of gospel music, deep Christian faith, and commitment to service.
William’s life was a reflection of his priorities: faith, family, and fellowship. He reveled in the times spent with his two children —William McClure Derrickson III (Micah Arrasmith) and Kimberly (Christopher Moberly) Derrickson. His seven grandchildren, Jordan McClure Planck, Trenton, Taylor, Samuel, Cherish, Timaiya Derrickson, and Damien Shelby, along with nine great-grandchildren, brought him immeasurable joy. Each holiday, birthday, and celebration was made more special by their laughter and love. His sister, Margaret Frances Nichols, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, will remember William as a constant source of love and guidance.
William’s favorite pastimes were as simple as they were sincere: attending church services, listening to gospel music, and spending quality time with his family. He had a particular fondness for classic Western films, which he enjoyed in the quiet of a pleasant evening at home after a Sunday’s service.
Indeed, William McClure Derrickson, Jr. was a man of great character; his actions and words alike were imbued with kindness. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary man, we celebrate the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of unwavering faith, enduring love, and the invaluable lessons he shared with us all. William’s story will continue to be told through the lives he touched, the family he nurtured, and the community he so dearly loved.
The beautiful tapestry of William’s life will be remembered in a service held at his beloved Prodigal’s House church, where family and friends will gather to honor a life well-lived and a soul departed too soon, yet rich in achievements and filled with purpose. As the sun sets on his earthly journey, we take solace in the belief that William McClure Derrickson, Jr. has found peace and reunion with those he loved and missed. He will be profoundly missed, eternally loved, and forever remembered.
Funeral services were conducted at 12:00 PM Friday March 13, 2026, by Rev. Aaron Crumbie with the eulogy by his granddaughter, Cherish Derrickson at the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home Chapel, 1120 Main St., Paris, KY. Burial followed in the Evergreen Memory Gardens, Paris, KY.
Visitation was from 6-8 PM Thursday March 12, 2026, at the funeral home.
Pallbearers were Damien Jones, Jordan Planck, Jerry Derrickson, Samuel Derrickson, Damien Shelby and Christopher Moberly. Honorary pallbearer was Taylor Derrickson.
The funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home Chapel, 1120 Main Street, Paris, KY. The online guestbook is at www.Lusk-McFarland.com and a 24-hour funeral information line can be reached by calling 859-987-4387.