Obituary of Derrick Demond Jackson

Derrick Demond Jackson, 47, of Forney TX, died at home on March 1, 2024.

Derrick also known as DJ, Big Boy, and Johnson was born on May 10, 1976 in Holly Grove, Arkansas to the proud parents of Cedric and Joan Swift. Derrick confessed his life to the Lord at young age at Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church (Chicago) where he was baptized. Derrick's soft, yet deep voice, was met with an unmatched warmth. You knew Derrick was in the room from the jokes he would tell with the biggest smile ever. If you met Derrick, you know he is simply UNFORGETTABLE.

Derrick's journey through life was marked by is love for sports, particularly basketball. Although he was a Bulls fan, he loved to watch Golden State Warrior games. As a former player for Ulysses S. Grant Elementary School in Chicago and Holly Grove High School in Holly Grove, AR, he left and indelible mark on the court. Derrick loved watching all sports. He would jump up cheering and clapping his hands when a play went his way and just smile bigger than the sun. Derrick loved traveling with his wife Nikkia, and was always ready for their next adventure, especially Jamaica.

Derrick was a peacekeeper, striving to bring harmony to those around him. With his quick wit and playful demeanor, he earned a reputation as a jokester with the Southern punchlines, bringing joy and laughter to every gathering. Indeed, everyone who had the pleasure to cross paths with Derrick has a cherished story about their love for him. Derrick worked at Chenille Kraft for 16 with his aunt Beverly Phillips (James) before they closed for business. Derrick recently began working for Frito Lay, which allowed him to get up early as he could to be home as early as he could to eat, watch sports, and take a nap. Derrick was always on time and readily available when his job called him. They knew he was responsible and dependable whenever they needed him. Derrick is survived by the love of his life, Nikkia Brown Jackson with whom he shared 22 amazing years. The connection between them was instant when Nikkia briefly worked at Chenille Kraft. From there on it was nothing but an adventure for the two of them. They married on October 9, 2007 in Punta Cana surrounded by family and friends. Derrick is also survived by his, daughter Kelly Brown, son Jordan Haas, and his grandchildren Kaylani Duty and Liam Jordan Haas, his mother-in-law Lillie Cruz (Ms. Lillie), and father-in-law Willie Wallace (Mr. Terry), brother-in-law Tyrell Stackhouse, his grandmother Susie Sutton, mother Joan Swift, father, Cedric Swift Sr, and brothers Cedric "Nene" Swift Jr. and Terrence Swift, sister Jalonta "Jill" Jackson-Glasco(Norman), niece Anasia Swift, great nephew Kyngston Cannon, niece Jaleigh Swift, nephew Joseph and Anaiya Stackhouse and a host of cousins, aunts, uncles, and amazing friends. Derrick was preceded in death by his grandmother Alta Mae Swift, grandfather CB "Mutt" Swift and grandfather CJ Jackson and stepfather-in-law Arturo Cruz Jr. Derrick's memory will be forever cherished by his wife, family and friends, and to all that had the privilege of being knowing him. His legacy of family, love, laughter and dedication will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.