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Attorney Derrick Thomas

Passed 12/17/2023

Obituary For Attorney Derrick Thomas

Attorney Derrick Thomas, 61, of Moseley, Virginia, entered eternal rest on December 17th, 2023, after succumbing to complications associated with scleroderma. Derrick hails from his beloved city, South Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

He was the Founder and Principal of The Thomas Law Firm, PLLC. in North Chesterfield, VA. He was also a proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served his country as a Judge Advocate General prior to private practice.

Derrick was a servant leader within his family, church, and community. Always going the extra mile to make a meaningful difference, he made sure the job got done the right way and with a smile. He was a proud and long-term member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., specifically active within The Richmond (VA) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Derrick was also a member of the Social Lodge #6 of Prince Hall Free & Accepted Masons, and the Mocha Temple No. 7, Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. And he was also an avid golfer and active member of his Big Dawg Golf group. He was a devout Philadelphia Eagles and Sixers #1 fan. He loved his hometown teams.

He is survived by his loving family who adore him, his wife, Linda Thomas; daughter, Gianna Thomas, two sons, Evian Thomas and Corbin Thomas (Savannah Thomas); grandchildren Jayden King and Layla Thomas; mother, Elise Fisher; brother, Darryl Thomas (Stacey Thomas); sister, Michelle Drummond; stepfather, Ronald Fisher; stepbrother, Douglas Fisher (Yolanda Fisher); stepsisters, Karen Stokes; Tammy Fisher; Theresa Fisher and a host of other close relatives and friends.

Remains rest at Scott’s Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd. The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. followed by reflections until 7 p.m. on Wednesday, December 27, 2023 at Scott's Chapel, 116 E. Brookland Park Blvd. Richmond. A Celebration of Life Service will be held 10 A.M. Thursday, December 28 at Fifth Street Baptist Church, 2800 Third Ave. Richmond. Interment 2 p.m. at Virginia Veterans Cemetery, Amelia. Repast immediately following the funeral service.

Livestreaming Website: https://www.fifthstreetbaptist.org/watch

Face Book: https://www.facebook.com/fifthstreetbaptist?mibextid=nwBsNb

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Derrick’s name to the:

Jennie Shaw Community Development Foundation, P.O. Box 27451, Richmond, VA 23261.

Richmond Kappa Endowment Fund:

Mail to:
Carl Granderson, Endowment President, 6058 Pond Grass Rd Mechanicsville VA 23111
Richmond Kappa Endowment Fund Donation Link: https://my.simplegive.com/App/Form/07e13752-1eea-48eb-a873-999fdbc8a987

Scleroderma Foundation, https://national.scleroderma.org/site/Donation

Though Derrick is no longer physically with us, he continues to be loved beyond measure and held closest in our hearts.


Condolences & Tributes

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Steven E. Hairston, Ph.D.,CFRM sent Red and White Floor Basket for Attorney Derrick Thomas - December 26, 2023

Linda and family, Our deepest condolences. Derrick will always remain in our hearts and minds. Steven and Ingrid Hairston Birmingham, Alabama

Send flowers for Attorney Derrick Thomas

Faithful Friend Standing Spray was sent for Attorney Derrick Thomas - December 23, 2023

Radiant Foliage Planter was sent for Attorney Derrick Thomas - December 20, 2023

Deborah O’Toole planted 5 trees in memory of Attorney Derrick Thomas . - December 27, 2023

Plant trees for Attorney Derrick Thomas

Daniela Lermer planted 7 trees in memory of Attorney Derrick Thomas . - December 22, 2023

I grew up in South Philly with Doc. He was an honorable Brother. We represented the YMCA in various Youth in Government events. We played ball and went to numerous parties in our youth. He was a trail blazer and made us all proud. God Bless his memory. Protect his Family. Love you always. Mike Bell

Linda, my thoughts and strong prayers are with you and your children. The service absolutely captured the man I knew and respected immensely. Continue to trust and depend on God during these difficult times. We really do serve a Mighty God! Deacon Jerome Moore Jr. Chairman of the Deacon Board Mt Olive Baptist Church

Linda, we are so saddened to hear of Derrick's passing. From our times together at Jack and Jill to golfing with his crew we always loved his character and will sorely miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. With love, Bill and Kelly Furr

My deepest sympathies and condolences to the Thomas family and friends. Michael D Williams made a charitable donation in honor of Attorney Derrick Thomas.

Dear Linda and family: It is no exaggeration to say that Derrick was truly one of the nicest human beings that we have ever known. We met over 30 years ago when our children were in Jack and Jill together. Our relationship deepened when your family joined our family at 5th Street Baptist Church. We witnessed his spiritual growth that eventually led to his being ordained as a deacon in the church. He was a dedicated servant leader; whose example of compassionate leadership and love for his church, family, friends, organizations and community, will forever be remembered. Our continuous prayers will be with you as we all struggle to accept the fact that he will no longer physically be with us. But we all can find comfort in knowing that Derrick is at home with the Lord. He was surely one of God's most faithful servants. With much love, Roscoe and Angela

Linda. You have my heartfelt condolences. I have not seen Doc in years but fondly remember those days together at IUP. You and your family are in my prayers. I pray God's peace and strength for you during this difficult time

Bryan Gallman

Heartfelt Condolences to Thomas $ Fisher Family.. Pean always playing around something about his beautiful smile. He were a funny guy... If I recall he gave his sister Michelle her nickname that stuck with her.. Meatball.. Growing up on Manton Street. Love always SouthPhilly Thumb an family

Rest Eternally Derrick. I have Derrick ever bit of 45+ years. It's crazy I wish I had thought to remember when and where we first met. It was either at the YMCA, Barrett Playground or thru some mutual friends. I remember going to many parties with my man SHOCKY DOC. Mr. Peanut, Pean. We went on As South Philly High School's Senior Prom. If I remember correctly Doc didn't go straight to college and instead my second year came up to visit and I hosted him during his visit. At IUP Doc became a member of the greatest Fraternity known to mankind 5-15-82. I had the pleasure joining the aforementioned Fraternity 4-26-84. Derrick was my Dean of Pledges. The road was rough,rugged and rocky. He steered me and my sands into Kappa Land 4-26-84. Through the years it was nothing for Derrick to get on the road drive throughout the night most times to Philly, IUP and to the Kappa Konklave. I had a surprise 60 birthday party in Philly and true to the friend that he was and remained. He attended my surprise party. I was able to return the favor the following month at his 60th. He shared with me briefly the struggles that he dealing with in regard to his health. I last saw him in Tampa in July at the Kappa Konklave. I knew seeing him that it was a matter of time. In these last few months a called, texted my life long friend to pray for him and encourage him to keep Fighting. He never complained nor stopped fighting. I spoke to him a few days before he went to rest on the GOLDEN SHORES. After talking to him that day. I texted him and asked him would it be better to text him he said yes. I texted him a few more times the look at time being the Friday or Saturday before he went to be with OUR LORD Love You Dean. YOURS IN THE BOND KEITH SMITH FOOTE'

The Overton Family offers our sincerest condolences to the Linda and the entire Thomas family. Derrick's kindness, thoughtfulness and empathy for others will be surely missed. His infectious smile encouraged so many. Continuing to ask God's blessings and favor on your lives. Lovingly , Cedric, Lisa and Charles

He was my classmate from 7-12 Grade May he Rest Well in Heaven I keep the good memories always in my heart Condolences to his family,friends and Classmates 💐🕊😇🤗🥰

Sorry for your loss, Derrick was a faithful servant of the lord. He will be miss.

Although I am unable to physically be with you all, I am keeping the family in my prayers. Derrick was nothing but kind to me since the first time I met him. He treated me as family and always reached out and kept in touch. I am forever grateful for him and his love of family.

We will never forget you.j

I was made aware of Derrick's passing a few minutes ago, so I write this note with a very heavy heart. My only reprieve from sorrow is having such great memories of my good Kappa Brother (Derrick). Always smiling and willing to help, Derrick will be sorely missed in so many ways. I offer my heartfelt condolences and continued prayers to the Thomas family.

Indeed a true gentleman! Three young Black men and five Black young ladies in that Pitt Law Class of 1989. Derrick was always encouraging and kind. We truly helped and lifted each other. Over the years we may have lost contact but those years in law school hold fond memories because of the closeness we held toward each other. May you rest in peace and power Attorney Derrick. Condolences and prayers for Linda, your children and entire family. I treasure the wonderful memories. Wycessa Washington Small, J.D.

I would like to express my heartfelt love and condolences to the Thomas Family. Our children literally grew up together in the Midlothian Chapter of Jack and Jill, Inc. and over the years , we all became extended family. Derrick has always been a great guy who offered a smile and words of encouragement and support to everyone. As we think of him, we can cherish all of the good memories and know that he leaves us with a legacy of excellence and love to hold tight our hearts. With deepest sympathies, Birdie

I vividly remember first meeting Derrick and Linda in their Pittsburgh apartment. Derrick was the brother who introduced me to, and lived a life in the spirit of, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. He was a great big brother and friend to my family. Derrick shared my most pivotable life events, I was most elated to reconnect our lives in Richmond. My condolences to Linda and the Thomas kadults. Derrick was a great man amongst men, a loving husband and father, and a life blessing to me and the world. Rest peacefully knowing you did an exceptional job in life..."many are called, but chosen are few".

I was so sad to find out about Derrick's passing. I knew him at Troutman Sanders law firm. He was a gentleman in every way and he loved his family. I would be so proud to see him in his law firm's commercials on TV. It was a great pleasure to have known him, and I pray the Thomas family will feel the comfort of God's Holy Spirit and draw the strength and peace only He can provide during this difficult time and beyond.

What a gentleman!!! I worked with Derrick at Troutman Sanders and he was always so kind and generous with his knowledge and time. Even after he left, we'd see each other occasionally and just catch up. He was a wonderful man. My prayers are with his family at this time-asking God to comfort as only He can. Deborah Baldwin.

I am so sorry to learn of Derrick's passing. He was a gentleman and a scholar. I offer prayers of peace for his family.

My deepest sympathies to Linda and the family. Derrick was a law school classmate who was very supportive while a struggled through school as a single parent. We lost contact over the years and then reconnected several years ago. It was as if we never lost contact. You will be missed my dear friend. God bless you. Terryl Brown

I was saddened to learn of Derrick's passing. I had the pleasure of working with him when he first came to Richmond. A lovely man and an excellent attorney. He will be missed.My condolences to his family at this sad time. Deborah O'Toole

My deepest sympathies to the entire Thomas family. I pray that God wrap you up in his loving arms and provide you with peace and comfort during this time. Derrick was a former coworker and has been a mentor to me throughout my entire career. He was such a caring, genuine and thoughtful person that embodied the fruits of the spirit. I'm confident that his light will continue to shine brightly through the lives of the many others he's poured into over the years. He has left a powerful legacy.

To Linda and the Family: I was heart broken to learn of Doc's (as I affectionately knew him) passing. We were roomates during our first year of law school and graduated together in 1989 achieving our Juris Doctorate degrees from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, where only 3 black men graduated that year. Doc and I became brothers through our journey through law school. He and Linda attended my wedding in Philadelphia in 1993 and we remained in close contact over the last 37 years. He prayed me through when I lost my wife (Tracey) of 28 years in 2021. I will now humbly return that favor and ceaselessly pray for Linda and their children. May God continue to bless your soul Doc and don't forget to address the Heavenly Court with our time honored opening..."May it Please the Court"! Love you forever my brother! Greg Ray

Brother Thomas was always a kind and strong man that I admired. I will always value his humble nature, strong character, words of wisdom, and smile. I thank God for the opportunity for allowing us to meet and to become brothers (ΚΑΨ). My sincere condolences to his wife and children. Until we meet again my dear brother. Rest in the loving arms of Jesus.

Derrick was indeed a humble and loving man. I always knew him to be pleasant and encouraging. May God comfort and shield his wife and kids during this difficult hour.

Dr. Michael K. Ross

It is with my deepest sympathies that I offer my condolences to Derrick's family and friends. He was a very special person with a very calm demeanor not often seen in others. Most of my experiences with D included enjoying many hours of golf course enjoyment/frustration, more than a few meals and numerous post-golf bragging and fellowship. I am honored to have shared so many memories with Derrick and to be able to call him a friend. I will be thinking about him often.

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

Scotts Funeral Home | Richmond, VA

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