Derrick Raphael Williams was born December 13, 1962 to the late Willie James and Inez Williams in Bradenton, Florida.
He attended Manatee County Public Schools and graduated from Manatee High School in the Class of 1980. Derrick was employed as a truck driver at several jobs to name a few: Bay View Cleaners, King's Florists, Prince Construction, Manatee Fruit Company, Honey Comb of America for 11 years, and lastly, the City of Bradenton.
Derrick loved driving trucks, he loved his dogs, namely "Rosco" that was his favorite chihuahua, he dearly loved all of his children, especially his grandchildren. Derrick was a big time joker, he loved making everybody laugh. A couple of his famous quotes were: "Ain't nobody cooking this food, but me" (he made mean green beans), "do what I say do", and "let me show you how to do it". He was real bossy and loved to "fix" things. His wife says, "He loved to fix things and tear 'em back up again".
Derrick hobbies were fishing, being a handyman, working on trucks, and watching football. His favorite team was the one that was winning. He had a kindred heart, and would always let you know that he loved you. Whenever his sisters, brothers, and nieces called, he was there in flip flops.
He was preceded in death by his father, Willie James, mother, Inez Truewell Williams and Maggie Edwards.
He leaves to cherish his life, his lovely, devoted wife Evone Williams; His children Omar Edwards, Katarsha Murray (Nigel), Lashonda Bradwell, Rufus Bradwell, Ramirez Bradwell; Grandchildren, Niquayria, A'layiah, Alxavier, Omar Jr., Lil' Rufus, Capri, Ka'mari, Ka'miya, Ce'asia, Ceon, Ja'myri, Jaquez, Romaro, Zari, Zoeriah and Reele; Two great-grandchildren, A'majai and Derrick Jr; Sisters: Bertha, Leola, Earvine, Annette and Sonya; Brothers: James, John (Ladawn), Larry (Brenda), Dale, and Willie Vegas; Father in law, Woodrow Edwards; in laws: Sharon Wilson (Byron), Ann Bridges (Charles), and Bruce Edwards; Aunts: Margie G. Woodson, Reatha Placid (Jude), Bennie Mae Yon, Alma McDuffie, and Violet Dixon; and a host of aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and family members.
