Derek William Naylor

Derek was born on January 22, 1988, in Norfolk, Virginia, to Ron and Candace Naylor. He graduated as Valedictorian from Choctaw High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Central Oklahoma.

Derek enjoyed a successful career in Aerospace and Defense, working as an engineer at Northrop Grumman Corporation and The Boeing Company. Beyond his professional achievements, he was a gifted musician, known for composing original music and mastering multiple instruments. Derek had a deep passion for the arts and was admired for his dry wit and sense of humor.

He is survived by his father, Ron Naylor, and step-mother, Shannon; his sister, Amy Stockton, and her husband, Bob; his nieces, Ava, Ella, and Leigha; step-brothers Trevor and Travis Resar; his uncles, Larry, David, and Jim Naylor; his aunts, Kathy Spencer, Sara Riser, Sandra Thoen, and Tya Smith; his grandparents, Melvin and Shirley Naylor, Dorothy Chavers, and step-grandparents James and Marsha Cartledge; and numerous extended family members and friends.

Derek was preceded in death by his mother, Candace; his grandfather, Ben Hart; his step-grandfather, James Chavers; and his uncle, Rick Hart.

Please join us to celebrate Derek at the UCO Jazz Lab on Sunday, July 7th, 2024 from 2:00 - 6:00 PM.

The sound stage will be available if anyone would like to bring their instruments.