Derek Smith

A young man with an old soul, Derek was born October 11, 1996, in Birmingham, Alabama. Although he passed away two weeks before his 23rd birthday, on September 26, 2019, he will FOREVER LIVE ON in the hearts & memories of those who love him dearly, including but not limited to his mother, Bobbie Ransum Smith, father, Marc Smith, sister, Hannah Faith Smith, brother, Maverrick Metzler, & many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A bright young man, he was identified by the Duke University Talent Identification Program in middle school. After graduating from Mortimer Jordan High School (May 2015), he attended Auburn University (2015-2016) on an academic scholarship and went on to pursue a degree from Wallace State College (2016-2019). Full of excitement and eagerly devoted to accomplishing his goals, he wrote: “I've been accepted into a Diagnostic Imaging program! I'm more than ready to put all of my efforts into finishing it. Wish me luck!”

Upon graduation, he gave thanks and encouragement: “So yesterday I graduated college, today I PASSED my registry to become a Registered Radiologic Technologist and Monday I start my career at UAB Hospital! Thank you to my family, friends, and teachers who made it possible! Hard work and dedication pays off y’all :)” He did go on to work at UAB Hospital in Birmingham on May 13, 2019, as a Radiological Technician.

Friends and family are so proud of the man Derek grew up to be. They knew him to be a loyal, loving, supportive son, brother, friend, and co-worker. Very active, he loved basketball, kayaking, golf, deep sea fishing, and any outdoor activity. Derek always made time for and loved his family unconditionally. He was a light to others, nicknamed “Smiley” and always expressed compassion for others, offering kind, uplifting words to those needing them most.

His loss is a devastating tragedy. There are no words that do justice to his absence. The world definitely became darker without his light and love. He will be remembered daily. Those who loved him will deeply grieve but also be reminded to pursue their dreams to the fullest the way he did. They will make him proud and honor his legacy by remembering his genuine kindness, thoughtful encouragement, and unparalleled generosity. Perhaps his light will in fact live on in all those he touched. They will radiate his smile, his affection, his compassion and he will live on forever! Those he left behind will pursue a life worthy to meet him again in Heaven where they know he is waiting with joy upon his face, outstretched arms for an eternal embrace, and encouragement that will erase every tear shed on earth.

He made us proud! We will make him prouder still!