Derek J. Heath Obituary (1970

Derek J. Heath, 53, of Lincoln, IL, passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at Lincoln Memorial Hospital. Derek was born September 16, 1970, in Lincoln, IL. He was the beloved grandson of Bedford and Thelma Hart. He married Misty Neeley on February 14, 1998, in Illiopolis, IL. She survives. Derek is also survived by his son, Blake (Jennifer) Neeley; granddaughter, Shay Neeley; grandson; Dierks Neeley; honorary grandchildren, Abby and Sam Horton; aunt, Debbie Maynard; niece, Courtney Maynard; and his beloved pups, Dozer and Daisy. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Bedford and Thelma Hart; mother-in-law, Doris Wicker; as well as several aunts and uncles. Derek treasured hunting with Shay and his friends. He loved fishing with his grandkids. In his early years, Derek did demolition derbies; more recently he enjoyed watching his son drag race. Derek devoted all of his time to his family and friends. He never met a stranger and his favorite place to hangout was in his garage with friends. He treasured his life with Misty, creating memories and stories that will never be forgotten. Cremation rites have been entrusted to Fricke-Calvert-Schrader Funeral Home in Lincoln.