Derell C. Martin was born on September 14, 1969 in East St. Louis, IL to Sherryl Martin and Malcom Jackson, both whom have preceded him in death. He was the oldest of three children from his mother. Derell was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Wade C. Martin Sr. and Emma Lucille Martin. Also preceding him in death are his paternal grandparents, Emma Jackson and Terez Jackson Sr., three uncles, and one aunt.

Derell accepted Christ at an early age. He attended Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. John H. Rouse Sr. He served as a Junior Deacon. Derell received his education in East St. Louis District #189, attending Washington Elementary School, Hughes Quinn Jr. High and Lincoln Sr. High. In 1985 Derell left Lincoln Sr. High to continue his education in Clarksdale, Mississippi, attending Coahoma Agricultural High School, graduating with the class of 1987.

After graduating he continued his education at Coahoma Jr. College in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Upon completion of his first year in college, he came home for the summer. Missing home, his family and friends, he decided not to return to school.

Derell was very active in playing sports growing up. He loved football, basketball, and baseball. He played little league baseball at the Jackie Robinson Kourey League. He played baseball for Coahoma Jr. College and he also played softball and basketball for Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church.

Derell worked many jobs throughout his life until his health began to fail him.

Derell was a kind and loving person and he loved his family. He loved children, especially his nieces and nephews. Although short, he was a gentle giant with a heart of gold. He was nonconfrontational with a quiet spirit. He loved hard and he was loved by many. There wasn't anything he wouldn't do for you if he could. Whether it was a kind word to bless your day or showing you love with a hug and always telling you he loved you.

He enjoyed life and lived it to the fullest. He loved to party and was very outgoing. If he was your friend it was for life, never wavering and he had many friends that reciprocated that same love and loyalty.

Derell departed this life on August 1, 2025 at St. Louis University Hospital. This was also his grandfather's birthday (Wade C. Martin Sr.) (I know you enjoyed your birthday present). The outpouring of love that Derell received before he took his last breath was one for the record books. He received his flowers while he was still here and he departed knowing he was loved. Fly high Derell. You've gained your wings.

Derell leaves to cherish his memories forever, two brothers, Emorio Martin Sr. of Cahokia, IL, Doriun (Shannon) Martin Sr. of Belleville, IL; one sister, Emily Love-Oestriech of Greenwood, IN; two aunts, Emma Martin of East St. Louis, IL, Sharon Jackson Fair of East St. Louis, IL; one uncle, Morris Jackson of East St. Louis, IL, a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins; godson, Terrell Sutton. A very special friend, Teorie Campbell and many many friends.