Howard C. Derrick was born on December 6, 1923 in El Paso, Texas to Howard and Esther (Highsmith) Derrick and passed away on Friday, July 1, 2011.

Howard was educated in El Paso schools and at Texas A&M prior to serving in the U.S. Air Force during World War II. He married San Angelo native, Faye Dell Manley on February 15, 1947.

Howard loved aviation, piloting his "Cowchip Airline" during his ranching career. He was appointed to the Texas Prosecutors Council by Gov. Dolph Briscoe, was active in many organizations, including the Texas Sheep and Goat Raisers Association, the National Wool Growers Association, the American Sheep Producers Council and the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association along with serving on bank boards and Wool and Mohair boards.

Howard was a storyteller with a keen sense of humor. He was well known for his "chicken in a bottle" and "buzzard stories." He loved people and was a true family man, loving, caring and providing for his family. He enjoyed his golf buddies and his weekly meetings on Friday with the "Romeo" group; he was an extraordinary and kind man. He was preceded in death by his parents and a grandson, Scott Williams.

Howard is survived by his wife of 64 years, Faye Dell Derrick of San Angelo; sister, Elaine Libbey of Macon, GA; and brother, Bill Derrick and wife, Cheryl of El Paso, Texas; son, Gary Derrick and wife, Trouba of Austin, Texas and daughter, Linda Williams and husband, Keith of Cherokee, Texas; grandchildren, Julie Gilger, Jennifer Derrick, Chris Derrick and Ross Williams, along with many friends and extended family members.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, July 5, 2011 at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Nathaniel Hankins officiating.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.

Family and friends may sign an online guest register book at www.johnsons-funeralhome.com