Derrick Anthonel Dydell was born on April 23, 1974, the third of five children to Clara (Bonwell) and Maurice Dydell, Sr.

Derrick was a lifelong resident of Kansas City, Mo. He received his primary schooling through the Kansas City School District, graduating from Van Horn High School in 1993.

He demonstrated a passion for leadership and those talents showed through the various organizations in which he was involved. He went on to become an active member of such organizations, including Starlight Theatre, Calvary Community Outreach Network, the Statewide Comprehensive Prevention Planning Group, The Whole Person, KC Care Advisory Board, Vivent Advisory Board, Empower Missouri, Housing Coalition of Kansas City, and the City of Kansas City Health Department.

Derrick was called home on May 16, 2023, with family by his side. He was preceded in death by both his parents, Clara and Maurice.

Derrick is survived by his partner, Kevin Hawkins; an older sister, Serena Dydell; an older brother, Maurice Dydell, Jr. (Leslie); two younger sisters, Evrona Francis (Bertlance) and Arisha Dydell (Michael); and a host of nieces, nephews, and other family. Derrick's loving heart leaves a beacon of light for all in the community. He will be missed sorely by family and friends.

Services for Mr. Dydell will be held 11:00 A.M., Friday, May 26, 2023, at E.S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel   Burial Blue Ridge Lawn Cemetery. Friends may call from 9:00 A.M. until service time Friday at the Chapel.

Thoughtful care and service provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc.