Mr. Gerald Derrickson passed away on Tuesday, September 16, 2025.

Gerald Hudon Derrickson was born on December 19, 1944, in Warrenton, Warren County, North Carolina, to the late Hurley Wilbert Derrickson, Sr. and the late Emma Harris Derrickson.

Born with a congenital condition that caused developmental disabilities, Gerald faced life's challenges with remarkable grace and resilience. His condition never defined him, nor did it hinder him from living a full, joyful, and meaningful life. Gerald's life was a testament to strength, love, and the deep connections he nurtured with family, friends, and his community.

Gerald began his early education at Charles H. Moore Elementary and later attended Lincoln Jr. High School. His twin sister, Cheryl, served as his caregiver for over 35 years. She enrolled him in adult day programs at GTCC, Wellspring Solutions, and PACE of the Triad, where he thrived socially and emotionally.

Gerald had a deep love for music and community events. One of his greatest joys was being an honorary member of the North Carolina A&T State University Alumni Marching Band, where he became a beloved and familiar face to many. His enthusiastic presence made him a crowd favorite year after year.

As an example of his independence and spirit, he often walked alone through the neighborhood, confidently making his way to the old Hayes Taylor YMCA, Perry J. Brown Funeral Home, and to the local school, where he sometimes played basketball with none other than former Harlem Globetrotter Freddy "Curly" Neal, a fellow community member and friend.

Gerald was always lending a helping hand to his sister Hurlyn's neighbors, the Casterlows and the Peeles, by carrying groceries, moving garbage bins, and offering a kind word and a smile. His generous and friendly nature was a gift to all who knew him.

Gerald leaves to cherish his memory: his sister, Hurlyn Barksdale (Thomas Barksdale, Sr.), his twin sister, Cheryl Moore (late Edward Moore), and his brother, Hurley Derrickson, Jr. He is also remembered with love by nieces Angela Barksdale, Chewan Moore, Kristie Campbell (James, Jr.), Shandi Barksdale (Adrian), Taiwan Brown (Tony), and Karen Derrickson; nephews Brian Derrickson and Thomas Barksdale, Jr. (Franita); and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and cherished friends.

Gerald loved everybody he knew, and they all loved him!

He truly never met a stranger!

Funeral service will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025, in the Cassie Coote-Brown Memorial Chapel at Perry J. Brown Funeral Home Chapel located at 909 East Market Street, Greensboro, North Carolina, 27406 at 1:30 p.m. Visitation will be held prior at 1:00 p.m.

Burial will follow at Lakeview Memorial Park, 3600 N OHenry Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27405.