Derrel Ray Leach

My funny, loving, truck-driving husband, Derrel Ray Leach, was on his way to that next delivery when he was involved in an accident on September 21, 2011 that took his life. Derrel was born on October 11, 1946 to Ona Neva McDonald and Willie James Leach in Eastland county, Texas. His life was truly a bridge between primitive living and a life of abundance. Early years were spent on a farm with no indoor plumbing and or electricity. The family moved around during these years - following the work available to his father, finally settling down in Terrell, Texas. There, Derrel attended school, but received his GED while serving in the US Air Force. He loved the freedom and simplicity of country living and was looking forward to returning to his beloved Texas. He was a whiz car mechanic, loving to work in grease of any kind while repairing or rebuilding an engine. He loved to tell stories of saving his old two-tone blue pickup from the crusher, and driving it for another twenty years plus or minus 5. Derrel was passionate about so many simple things: Mrs. Baird's bread, Borden's Dutch Chocolate milk, every tool for any possible situation, his white Ford F150, collectible memorabilia and coins, a hamburger done his way, Shelby mustangs, guns, his books, and being a native Texan. He is the father of two children: Brian and Joye, who he loved with all this heart, frequently commenting on what great adults they had become and taking any opportunity to praise their efforts and good fortune. He met his wife, Jill Savage, at the Dallas Texas Temple where they were both employed. He relentlessly pursued her until she finally gave in, and they were married on May 30, 1989 in the Salt Lake City Temple. For the past 13 years, they have lived in Hyrum, where they cared for Jill's mother until she move to an assisted living center. At the time of his death, he was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where he loved to serve anywhere he was needed. Derrel is survived by his wife, Jill, of 22 years; his two children, Brian Ray Leach Kathy of Magna, UT, and Joye Lynn Leach Henrie Russ of Fayetteville, Arkansas; 4 grandchildren, Tanisha, Roddy, Lillie, and Bailey; his brother, Fred Leach of Austin, Texas; and a sister, Madelyn Stella Linda Leach of Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers, and 1 sister.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, September 26th at 12:00 noon at the Hyrum 10th Ward Building 111 N. 400 W.. A viewing will be held from 6-8 pm on Sunday, September 25th, at Nelson Funeral Home of Logan 162 East 400 North. A viewing will also take place before the funeral from 10:00-11:30 at the church house. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.nelsonfuneralhome.com