Derek Jackson

On 25th May 2024, peacefully after a sudden illness, Derek aged 70 years of Blackburn.  Dearly beloved Partner of Cheryl, much loved Stepdad of  Mark and Liam, dear Father in Law of Sonia and Kirsty, Loving Grandad of Bobby, Isla, Harry, Emme and Mason and a very dear friend to many.

In 1954, Derek was born in Fulwood, Preston where he lived and went to school until moving to Blackburn with his parents to the Griffin Arms and later Fosse Close.  In his early years Derek worked as a telecom engineer on the railway, later working at British Steel then working in various bars,  he also worked as a compere in a number of clubs over the years.  Up until his retirement in late 2019 Derek was employed as a night shift worker at Asda.

Derek and his beloved Cheryl met in the Blackamoor pub, Blackburn in May 2000, a year later they moved in together and Derek became Step Dad to Mark and Liam.  Derek and Cheryl first lived at Ermine Close from 2001 to 2008, then Observatory Road from 2008 to 2009, Lindisfarne Avenue 2009 to November 2018,  Brandyhouse Brow from 2018 to 2023 when they then moved to their present address Whalley Old Rd.

Derek was a loving soul mate, friend and confidante to Cheryl, showing solid caring support to his step children, daughters in law and five beautiful Grandchildren who he was very proud of.  Derek was a faithful friend, always there making Cheryl smile with a quip or joke, he always saw the funny side of things.  Derek often said that being together with Cheryl really worked, as they understood each other, they both felt they were soul mates and it was meant to be.  They were both thankful that in 2009 he was given a second chance at life after his heart operation.   Derek and Cheryl had planned to marry this year but this sadly wasn’t to be.

Derek was a man that was content with his life and he was just as happy being at home with his beloved Cheryl as when out socialising with his friends and loved nothing more than a spot of people watching.  Derek loved being with friends enjoying a glass of red wine, good food and conversation.  He also had a love of real ale.  Derek also loved his own company and space, and was a man of few words and a good listener, he loved the saying ‘Better to stay silent and be thought a fool than open your mouth and prove it”.  He would listen avidly and many times come out with a pearl of wisdom.

Derek was a clever man who always wanted to learn, having a thirst for knowledge he kept his mind very busy reading, completing quizzes and keeping up with current affairs.  He loved to listen to music, in particular Billy Joel, Andrea Bocelli and Elton John.  Derek enjoyed listening to podcasts and music on the radio.

Derek and Cheryl enjoyed many memorable holidays together, in particular France and Barcelona.  Derek loved to travel especially driving down to visit friends in France where he loved the peace and tranquility.

Derek was a lovely man who will be sadly missed by all his family and friends.

Family flowers only please. Donations are being gratefully received in Derek’s memory on behalf of The Stroke Association. To make a donation please click the ‘Make A Donation’ button at the bottom of this page.

Please feel free to leave a message for Derek’s online memorial book by completing the form below.

 

Dave Lea

So many memories. Derek will always live in our hearts. Santé my friend

Janet Lea

Forever in my thoughts. RIP Derek

Louise Dean

Taken too soon, Derek will be sadly missed. Always in our hearts.

Brian Bibby

Rest well my good friend. I’ll cherish our memories of you. Gone far too soon x