Derrick Nash

MR. DERRICK DOWANN NASH began his earthly journey on April 28, 1995 in Saginaw, Michigan, the son of Decolia Greene and Lemont Nash. While surrounded by his devoted mother and family, God whispered, "come to me". Derrick gained his eternal wings and entered the Kingdom of Heaven Monday, June 22, 2015 at the University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Age 20 years.
OUR beloved Derrick was a special child who matured into a very humble young man. He loved many things including music, dancing and making people smile. Derrick loved God and was not ashamed to let his light shine. Whether it was singing in the church choir, working in many areas of ministry or playing gospel music from the dorm room to the locker room, he didn't mind giving God Praise. Derrick was willing to help anyone. He was a dependable and trusted friend that wanted to see others excel and do the right thing. Derrick stayed strong to the end. The song "Dear God" by Smokie Norful, ministered to Derrick's soul everyday. His resolve was to never quit. He kept the faith and finished his course here on earth, leaving an indelible mark for others to emulate.
DERRICK graduated with honors from Carrollton High School, maintaining a 3.8 grade point average. Derrick understood what it meant to be well - rounded academically and athletically. At Carrollton High School during his freshman year, Derrick was a corner on the junior varsity team. As a sophomore, he was a strong safety and running back, holding these positions until he graduated. Derrick was named All-Conference defensive back in his junior year and was unanimously voted All-Conference running back as a senior. The Saginaw News named Derrick Saginaw County's Offensive Player of the Year in 2012, along with first team all-state honors. ESPN Radio named him Scholar Athlete of the Week. He signed with Central Michigan University (CMU) in February, 2013. Derrick was honored and proud to be listed as a player (red-shirted) in CMU's Popeyes Bahamas Bowl 2014 and named honorary captain. He was loved by family and friends, and will be greatly missed.
DERRICK leaves to cherish his loving memory his parents, Decolia (William) Monroe and Lemont Nash; grandparents, including a special grandmother, Olga Greene, Gwen Nash and Anthony Garth; seven sisters, Diamond, Debreanne, Angel, Whitley (Twin), Willow, Angela, LeAsiah; three brothers, Lemont Jr., Lemonte and JaWuan; four aunts, Nikkae, Sharon, Marcy and Denise; five uncles, Daniel (Ersular), David Sr., Timothy, Demont and DeWayne; many cousins, relatives and friends including special cousin raised as brothers, David Jr.; godmother, Sharise Steele-Phillips; special friend close as a sister, Shawntoreah; Tracy, Mytraya, Selena, Johnetta Wilson, Zachary Steele, Nate Wotta and Ryan McGraw of Saginaw Athletic Club.
DERRICK was preceded in death by grandfather, Derrick Greene and brother, Darris Turell Johnson.
The family would like to express special thanks to the Central Michigan University students and faculty, Craig and Joan Douglas, Alex Fine and family, the community of Carrollton, Michigan, University of Michigan Health System 7-East staff, University of Michigan Adult Out-Patient Cancer Clinic staff, Alex Dill and family, AT&T, GoFundMe supporters, Michigan Blood Registry, Coach Rison and family, Mr. and Mrs. Ivan E. Phillips and the staff of Paradise Funeral Chapel. A special thank you to everyone that loved, supported, encouraged and prayed for Derrick Nash and family. We are truly grateful and your kindness will not be forgotten.
Visitation: Tuesday, June 30, 2015 - 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Wednesday, July 1, 2015 - 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Paradise Funeral Chapel
3100 South Washington Avenue
Saginaw, Michigan
989-754-4826
Family Hour: Thursday, July 2, 2015 - 10:00 a.m.
Victorious Believers Ministries
624 South Outer Drive
Saginaw, Michigan
989-755-7692
Celebration of Life: Thursday, July 2, 2015 - 11:00 a.m.
Victorious Believers Ministries
624 South Outer Drive
Saginaw, Michigan
989-755-7692
Host Pastor: Pastor Christopher Pryor
Officiating: Pastor Taurus Simpson, Daniel's Den Ministries
Interment: Forest Lawn Cemetery