Ernest Derrickson

Legacy of Life Ernest Derrickson, Sr. was born on January 07, 1934, at Chester Hospital, to the union of William T. Derrickson, Sr. and Eva Mae Cobb Derrickson. He was called home to be with the Lord on June 07, 2023. Ernest, fondly known as “Ernie”, was born and raised in Chester, Pennsylvania. He was a part of an elite group of families originating from “The Hill”. He accepted the Lord at an early age attending Bethany Baptist Church. Though, he did not have a church home later in life, he would respond without hesitation that “he knew the Man upstairs”. Ernie attended school in the Chester School District. As was permitted at that time, he signed himself out of high school at 16 years old and received his working papers. He worked as a pinsetter or “pin boy” at the Armory Bowling Academy; setting the stage for his future interest in becoming a competitive bowler. Shortly after, in abidance with the draft, he accepted his call of duty to the United States Army where he served from April 30, 1951- May 02, 1954. Ernie was in the Army Infantry serving tours in Germany and the Korean War. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Private First Class. Decorations and medals included: Marksman (Carbine), Combat Infantry Badge, UN Service Medal, National Defense Medal, Korean Service Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars. His "most significant duty assignment" was HQ HQ & Service Co., 25th Armed Infantry Bn. Upon discharge from the United States Army, Ernie returned to Chester, Pennsylvania and soon began employment at Scott Paper Company, now known as Kimberly Clark Corporation. During his tenure at Scott Paper, he held several positions including dock foreman. Ernie was a steadfast employee often working long hours and taking on extra shifts. He took pride in his role as a provider for his family, particularly his children. Denise, Stanback is the eldest and through his union with Mary Elizabeth (Carter) Derrickson, three children were born, (Janet, Kimberly and Ernest, Jr.). Ernie quickly learned to master the art of multi-tasking; providing for his family, raising children, working at Scott Paper Company and bowling. Ernie was an avid bowler, playing on several teams, traveling throughout the United States, and attaining the status as a semi-professional bowler with numerous awards and trophies. In the mid 1980’s, after years of competing and traveling with various bowling leagues, he made the ultimate sacrifice and stopped competing after a hand injury, redirecting more time, attention and finances on his children and soon-to-be granddaughter. After 30 plus years with Scott Paper Company, Ernie accepted an opportunity to retire early, in 1992. Never one to sit idle or live a sedentary lifestyle, Ernie held lifetime memberships at the: Charles Horsey Post 300 American Legion; 224-John A. Watts Lodge of Elks; and the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars). Ernie was well connected throughout the city of Chester through his involvement in various community endeavors. When not involved in the Elks Lodge or American Legion activities he could be found engaged in various card games, particularly poker. Also known as “Ernie D and Big Red”, sitting at a table as a novice poker player was often not a good choice. Known for his skill and poker face, “Ernie D” rarely left a game without winning, yet, he often extended mercy, giving others time to make good on his winnings. Like his brothers, the young Ernie was of tall stature, exuding a quiet yet strong, and discreetly intimidating presence. The informed knew not to “mess with” his loved ones as not to experience the wrath of “those Derrickson men”. Ernie enjoyed socializing, helping others, and sports, primarily football and baseball. He fondly recalled watching teams in the Negro League Baseball and although, a native of Chester, his favorite baseball team was the New York Mets. But more importantly, he was a lifetime fan of the Washington Redskins, relishing in banter about his choice, especially with Philadelphia Eagle fans. In his spare time, he enjoyed watching westerns, The Andy Griffith Show, Bonanza, Gunsmoke, and In the Heat of the Night. Though never one to boast, he took great pride in the Christian upbringing and success of his children and grandchildren; all of whom have attained undergraduate and post graduate degrees, and work in an array of professions: social work/human services, psychology, nursing/emergency medicine, administration, respiratory therapy, and theatre. On June 7, 2023, Ernie went to his eternal home to be with the Lord. He was preceded in death by his parents, William T. Derrickson Sr. and Eva Mae Cobb Derrickson; two brothers, William T. Derrickson, Jr. (Duke) and John Derrickson; He leaves to cherish his memory, two sisters, Dorothy L. Dill and Vivian Crumbley (Frank Crumbley); one brother, James L. Derrickson (Sonny), four children, Janet S. Riley-Ford (Frank A. Ford III), Kimberly Derrickson-Epps (John Henry Epps, Jr.), Ernest Derrickson, Jr. and Denise Stanback; two grandchildren, Ja-Nell Leanna Riley and Carter O’Brien Ford, and a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and his John A. Watts Elks Lodge family. Please call Simply Flora’s Florist to order flowers (610) 622-7980. In lieu of flowers, we are accepting donations to contribute to a gift in our father’s name for the Chester Senior Center. Financial contributions can be made through Zelle account: Kimberly 410-790-4108. View the service on Facebook @templebaptist.church.9847

Ernest Derrickson

January 7, 1934 - June 7, 2023