News Summary
The Irmo community is grieving the passing of former Sergeant John Derrick, a dedicated law enforcement officer and successful businessman. Derrick, who served 25 years at the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, was known for his integrity and contributions to public safety. Survived by family and friends, his legacy will be honored at a memorial service and through donations to Carolina Wildlife Rescue, reflecting his love for community service.
Irmo, SC – Community Mourns the Loss of Former Sergeant John Derrick, Esteemed Law Enforcement Officer and Businessman
The Irmo community is mourning the loss of former Sergeant John Derrick, an esteemed law enforcement officer and successful businessman, who passed away recently at the age of 60. Derrick’s career spanned 25 years at the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, where he was respected for his dedication, courage, and integrity. His contributions to public service earned him multiple awards, leaving a lasting impact on law enforcement and the community he served.
Born and raised in Irmo, John Derrick began his career in the construction sector after graduating high school, eventually founding a successful remodeling business. In 1985, he took a decisive step into law enforcement, joining the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department. Over his quarter-century career, he rose to the rank of Sergeant and became a respected member of the department’s SWAT team. Derrick was recognized for his exceptional contributions with numerous honors, including:
- Four Major Case Contribution Awards
- Master Marksman Award
- Tactical Operations Contribution Award
- Meritorious Conduct Award
His colleagues and community members fondly remembered Derrick for his unwavering commitment, sense of humor, and deep love for family and friends. He is survived by his daughter, Courtney Derrick (James), along with his grandchildren, Shirley and Jacob Derrick. Furthermore, he is survived by his former wife and lifelong friend, Debbie Derrick, and brother-in-law, Jim Sears. He was preceded in death by his sister, Pat Sears.
A memorial service to honor John Derrick’s life and legacy is scheduled for Sunday, August 3, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. The service will take place at Dunbar Funeral Home, located at 7600 Woodrow Street, Irmo, SC 29063. Following the memorial, there will be a visitation for family and friends to share their memories and condolences.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial donations be made to Carolina Wildlife Rescue, reflecting Derrick’s love for nature and community service. The community is encouraged to participate in this tribute and celebrate a life dedicated to helping others and protecting the safety of residents.
As a valued member of the Irmo community, John Derrick’s legacy will be remembered by all those whose lives he touched. His contributions to both law enforcement and his family will remain an integral part of the community’s history.
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Additional Resources
- Lexington County Sheriff: Inmate Death Investigation
- WLTX: Lexington County Jail Death Investigation
- The State: Local Crime News
- Accgov: Sheriff’s Department
- ABC Columbia: Inmate Death Investigation
- Wikipedia: Law Enforcement in the United States
- Google Search: Lexington County Sheriff’s Department
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Law Enforcement
- Google News: Lexington County Jail Death
- Google Scholar: Law Enforcement Initiatives
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
