Julian "Jay" Comer Derrick

Julian Comer “Jay” Derrick, of Abilene, Texas passed away on Tuesday, March 23, 2021 after reaching the age of 88 years old.  He died peacefully at his home with family members by his side.

Jay was born on January 22, 1933 In Colorado City, Texas to Alma Leona Comer Derrick and Ralph Luker Derrick. Ralph was a building contractor, so Jay learned how to build and create while working with him. This led to Jay's interest in architecture. Their family moved frequently during his childhood, with Monahans, Texas eventually becoming home.

Jay attended the Monahans schools where, as a result of a heart condition, he participated in sports as team manager. He was also involved in art classes which enhanced his love for painting (specifically watercolors). His beautiful paintings hang in the homes of his family and of many friends. After graduating from MHS in 1951, Jay attended Texas A&M for a short period after which he transferred to Texas Tech University where he studied architecture and commercial art.

Prior to beginning a 30 year career with Allstate Insurance, Jay worked as a draftsman for a building contractor (while in college and a year after college) and then served as the art director for KVKM TV station in Monahans for five years. He and his wife, Kay, also founded Derrick Real Estate in 1969, which they owned until 2002. While working for Allstate, Jay took pride in caring for his customers like they were family, making them feel like they truly were "in good hands". Allstate honored him numerous times for his high quality performance.

Over the years, Jay was involved in community work through the Jaycees, Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, and other groups. He was very active in the Third and Dwight Church of Christ, where he served as both a deacon and an elder. As a faithful Christian, he instilled a love for the Lord in each of his children which is now perpetuating to the next generation.

In June of 1957, Jay married Linda Kay Pipkin who would be the love of his life for over 63 years. Their family grew with the addition of three children - Denise, Phillip, and Jon. Jay was totally invested in his family and remained devoted to them his entire life.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Ralph Leroy Derrick, and a sister Donnabeth Derrick McClung.

He is survived by loving wife, Kay; children, Denise Barnett (Kent), Phillip Derrick (Linda), and Jon Derrick (Julie); six grandchildren, Tyler Barnett and Katie Barnett Emerson, Chris Derrick, Michael Derrick, and Hollie Derrick Pretiger, and Andy Derrick; seven great-grandchildren, Emma and Kinsley Barnett, Parker and Avery Emerson, Mara Derrick, Wyatt and Ian Pretiger, and great-grandson Hunter “Jay” Barnett, due in July.

The Family will honor his life during a private memorial service with burial to follow in the Monahans Cemetery.  Local arrangements under the direction of Piersall Funeral Directors, 733 Butternut Street in Abilene.

As an expression of sympathy, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.