Elmer Derry

Elmer Ray Derry died at his home in Butler, Missouri on Sunday July 19, 2020.  He left behind a loving family, countless friends, and coworkers as well as multitude of blessed acquaintances who shared in his love for life.
The eighth child of Donald & Sadie Derry of Rich Hill, Elmer grew up a Rich Hill Tiger who enjoyed and excelled in both basketball and football.  After school, this hard-working young man finally landed in Butler as a city employee and spent the last 21 years working for Liberty Utilities as the Senior Service Technician; Elmer was set to retire in four years.
The love and queen of his life, Tanya Isaacson, said “I do” and became his wife on June 30, 1995.  Together they created a home and family built on love, hard work, and pure fun.  They were loyal Chiefs fans and loved motorcycling with the Bucknuckle Motorcycle Family.  Elmer and Tanya shared 25 years of making memories.  Of course, Elmer also set aside a little time for a few of his passions, like hunting and fishing.
Elmer leaves behind his wife Tanya, of the home; sons, Brett Derry and wife Ashley of Butler, Hayden Derry and girlfriend Savannah of Joplin, and Andrew Derry of Rich Hill; daughters, Megan and husband Bryan Salisbury of St. Joseph, and Paige Derry (Adams) of Butler.  He also leaves behind the grandchildren he adored: Bralynn and Lukas Isaacson, Cylence and Emma Gould, Danica and Lincoln Salisbury, and Paityn Derry-Jones.
He is survived by his siblings: Janie McDaniel, Doug Derry, and Janet Kesterson; numerous friends and family.
Those preceding him in death include his daughter, Ashley; his parents; his siblings, Donald Derry, Eva West, Donna Tull, Melinda Ortiz, Mary West, Neslie Thompson; and his parents-in-law, Jerry and Diane Isaacson

Funeral Services will be held Wednesday, July 22, 2020 at 10:00 am at the Rich Hill Christian Church with Visitation Tuesday, 5-7 pm at the Church.  Burial Green Lawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions to the Bucknuckle c/o Heuser Funeral Home.