Richard L. “Rich” Derr
October 24, 1942 - September 28, 2026
Richard L. “Rich” Derr, age 83, of Middletown, DE, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 28, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Wilmington, DE, on October 24, 1942, Rich was the son of the late Lee Stanley and Mary (Hrabelska) Derr. He graduated from Mt. Pleasant High School in 1960 and earned his bachelor’s degree from Guilford College in Greensboro, NC, in 1964. Rich enjoyed a 33-year career as a sales representative and manager with Liberty Mutual before retiring in 2000.
Rich treasured time with his grandchildren and his beloved Jack Russell terrier, Jack. He maintained an active lifestyle and could often be found playing pickleball or tennis. His love of an active life began early: he was a four-time Delaware state tennis champion and played tennis with legendary star Arthur Ashe. Rich also spent much of his time outdoors, especially fly-fishing. While living in Williamsburg, VA, he established a small photography business and photographed a wide range of subjects, including work for the College of William & Mary. Rich will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his competitive spirit, and the enthusiasm he brought to his many interests.
Rich is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Clare Ann (DiNardo) Derr; his son, Steven Derr (Jennifer); and his grandchildren, Jacob and Ethan.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 275 East Main Street, Middletown, DE. A second visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at the funeral home, followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. Inurnment will follow at Old Bohemia Cemetery in Warwick, MD.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rich’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or Online Donations – St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Lynne and Fred Noll
Clare, Steve, Jennifer, Jacob and Ethan
We are so sorry for the loss of such an important and loved person in all your lives. May he rest in peace and his memory remain with you all forever. He will never be forgotten by the ones he loved deeply.
Lynne and Fred
Kate renner
I’m so sorry to hear about Rich. I didn’t know about his accomplished tennis background but that is very cool. Please know that Michael and I are holding his memory in the light.
Carol and Bob Smith
Rich was a dear friend and, although we didn’t get to really know him until later in life, close to his retirement, we thoroughly enjoyed the times we were able to spend with him and Clare. He was a great conversationalist, and was obviously well-read and possessed a thorough knowledge on a wide range of subjects. He was also a loving husband, father and grandfather, and we always enjoyed conversing with him and Clare on mutual experiences with our grandkids. We will certainly miss you, Rich, but we know that you are in a better place with your health issues behind you.
Ron Price
So sorry for your loss our hearts go out to you and your family.
Frank Kriss
I played tennis with Dick at MPHS, I was a Sophomore and he was a Senior. We would hit occasionally. He was a Great player and what I remember most was he was always a great gentleman.