James William Derr of Sun City Grande, Arizona passed away Friday, January 14, 2022 at the age of 94.
James was born July 27, 1927 in Plymouth, Ohio. He served his country in the Armed Forces from 1945-1948 and finished his education at the University of Cincinnati. He married the love of his life Joan Fleck in 1952 and began his teaching career in Ohio. He taught business, coached basketball and worked on the yearbook before moving to Arizona in the early 1960s. James taught at Phoenix Union High School until it closed and finished his teaching career at Central and North High Schools.
Jim and Joan were wonderful parents to their three children, Debbie, Kathy and Jim. They also have six beautiful grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
There will be a Celebration of Life Service on February 26, 2022 at 10:30 am. It will be held at Jesus Church. The address is 2929 West Greenway Road in Phoenix, Arizona. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
