On May 19, 1989, Derek Damonde Russell was born to Neisha Russell and Sedrick Courtney. He was the first grandson to Priscilla and Allen Russell.


Shortly after his birth, Elvernon White, Jr., entered into his life and lovingly helped raise him. Elvernon taught and coached him in various sports and became a great influence throughout his Derek's life.


At an early age, Derek was baptized in the Spring of 1991 at Friendship Baptist Church. He attended Tulsa Public Schools and graduated fro East Central High School in 2007. His dream after high school was to attend medical school with hopes of becoming a medical surgeon. Derek loved sports, video games, listening to music, family get togethers and playing iwth his dog, Punch.


Later in his life, he was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes, which he controlled with daily medication.


After 19 years, Derek Damonde Russell traded life for glory on July 30, 2008. It's amazing how Derek's short lived life touched so many and we would love for everyone to remember how he lived and not how he died. With an infectious smile and sweet personality, Derek was loved by everyone and will be dearly missed. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Elvernon White, Sr., and great-grandmother, Virginia Henderson.


He leaves with beautiful memories to cherish; his mother, Neisha Russell; his father, Sedrick Courtney; his step-father, Elvernon White, Jr.; his sister, Xiniqua White; baby brother, Derrian Young; his grandmothers, Priscilla Russell and Peggy White; great-grandmother, Viola Russell; an uncle, Allen Russell, Jr., all of Tulsa, Oklahoma. He also leaves behind his extended family, a sister, Sydney Courtney; two brothers, Sedrick and Sericko Courtney, all of Tulsa; and a host of aunts, uncles, great-aunts, great-uncles, cousins by the dozens and many, dear friends.

The Celebration of life for Derek will be on Saturday, August 16, 2008 at 10:00 A.M. in the Friendship Church. Evangelist Harold White will officiate.