Derek Jerome Strickland, 43, of Carthage, Missouri, passed away on May 18, 2024, at Mercy Hospital, Joplin, Missouri. He was born on September 3, 1980, to Tamara “Tami” Strickland. Derek lit up every room with his joy, smile and contagious laughter.
He attended Carthage schools with the class of 1998. Derek was a sports enthusiast, cheering with passion for his favorite teams: the New York Knicks, Boston Red Sox, and Dallas Cowboys. His love for sports extended to fantasy football, where he enjoyed the camaraderie and friendly competition with his close-knit group of friends. Derek’s love for music was evident to anyone who knew him. However, his greatest joy was found in the time he spent with his children and family. He attended Destiny Church in Joplin, and embraced everyone he met with acceptance, love and kindness.
Survivors include his mother, Tamara “Tami” Davis, Carthage; his beloved children, Haven Rose Strickland and Deakin Cole Strickland; the mother of his children, Jamie Strickland, Joplin; his sister, KeSharra Strickland (Korean), Texas; his brother, Tristen “Opie” Strickland; his uncles, Jerome Strickland (Chris), Carthage, and Herman Triplett, Jr. (Tanisha), Texas; his aunt, Monica Triplett Cain (Jarvis), Maryland. Derek was known as “Unc” to his nieces and nephews, and had a special bond with many cousins and friends who we’re like brothers.
Survivors on his paternal side include; his father, Rick Farmer (Julie), Carthage; his brothers, Quintin Farmer (Tiffany), Chris Farmer (Stephanie); his aunt, Mary Lynn Hopkins, Joplin.
Preceding him in death were his grandmother, Patty Strickland; his grandfather, Herman Victor Triplett; and his aunt, Vanessa Strickland, who have now welcomed him home.
Memorial services will be held at 10:30 am, Friday, May 24, 2024, at Carthage Nazarene Church, Carthage. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com.
