Derrick Lamarr Wansley

With hearts full of love, we celebrate the life of Derrick Lamarr Wansley, born June 5, 1965, in Columbus, Ohio, to Effie Delores Wansley. At age 10, life took a new turn when his mother married Clarence Hill, and the family moved to Akron, Ohio. There, Derrick thrived—graduatingfrom Buchtel High School, in 1983, and excelling in both wrestling and football. His athletic talent earned him a full scholarship to Virginia Union University, where he formed lifelong bonds rooted in brotherhood and faith.

Derrick’s spiritual journey began early. In Akron, his faith was nurtured at Shelton Temple COGIC, later deepening at New Covenant Believers’ Church, where he served faithfully in the choir and praise team. His love for gospel music led him to sing with groups like Identity and to serve in several ministries, always using his voice and heart to uplift others. 

Summers in Columbus with his Aunt Polly and Uncle Bus were filled with love, music, and life lessons. Even as a boy, Derrick had a gentle spirit, magnetic smile, and a gift for making people feel seen and loved. He was a gentle giant, known for his enormous hugs and even bigger heart. A lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan, Derrick also loved to sing, dance, and laugh. Despite his size, he moved with surprising rhythm and grace. He brought that same energy and joy to everything he did, including his 24-year career with the Ohio Department of Juvenile Corrections. Later, he continued to mentor young people through work at Briar Patch Ranch for Kids.

In 1992, Derrick met Frances L. Fleming at a wedding. Three years later, they married and built a life centered on love, family, and faith. He became legal guardian to his nephew, Terrell LamarrHill and together, he and Frances raised two daughters, Daria Elyce-Juyl and Zaria Noel-Jade. In 2025, they celebrated 30 years of marriage, just as they welcomed their first grandchild, Ayan ZyAire Jamahl Mozer, who quickly became Derrick’s sunshine and source of strength.

Though health challenges marked his later years, Derrick’s faith never wavered. He was preceded in death by his mother E. Delores Hill; sisters CarlaHill and DeAna Wansley; his nephew/son Terrell; and stepsister CarolynHill-Sanders.He leaves behind a legacy of love and service: his devoted wife, Frances; daughters, Daria and Zaria; grandson, Ayan; his cousin, Toya Kendrick; step-siblings, Carlton, Lida, Darrell, Olethus, Mark, and Margetta Hill; and a large extended family, including cousins, godchildren, and lifelong friends. Known as Big Wans, Big Daddy, and Big D, Derrick was a man of faith, music, laughter, and fierce love. His life reminds us to show up for others, embrace joy, and lead with compassion. 

Rest well, Big Wans. You are deeply loved, and your legacy lives on in every heart you touched.