Carol Ruth Derr

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Carol Ruth Derr, who was called to her heavenly home on May 9, 2026, at her home in Black Jack, Missouri, at the age of 79. Born February 25, 1947 in Flint, Michigan, Carol was a beacon of love and kindness, leaving an indelible mark on all those fortunate enough to know her.

Carol was the cherished daughter of Darrell "Bud" and Barbara Rose, who instilled in her a strong sense of faith and community. After graduating from high school, she married her first husband, Larry Bishop, with whom she shared a life filled with love and devotion. As a dedicated young mother, Carol poured her heart into raising her daughters, Melanie, Meredith, and Michal, nurturing them with unwavering support and guidance. After they were grown, she worked in retail at Hudson's in Flint. Unfortunately, Larry passed in 2004 and Carol found herself on her own.

In 2009, after rekindling a romance with her high school sweetheart, Dale Derr, Carol found renewed joy and love. Their marriage brought countless beautiful memories, and together they embraced retirement in Desert Hot Springs, California, before relocating to St. Louis in 2018 to be closer to family.

With a steadfast commitment to her faith, Carol remained a member of Maranatha Baptist Church in Flint, Michigan, throughout her life. Her passion for community was evident in her many contributions as a devoted chorister in the church choir and as a spirited pitcher for the church softball league. An avid bowler, Carol cherished the bonds formed with friends both on and off the lanes.

Carol was preceded in death by her first husband, Larry Bishop; her daughter, Meredith Hungerford; her brother, Edward Rose; and her brother-in-law, Thomas Clark.

She is survived by her husband, Dale Derr; daughters, Melanie (Kevin) Tykolis and Michal (Jerry) Gennaria; son-in-law, Brian (Vero) Hungerford; grandchildren, Madison (Nathan) Whitmer, Josh (Taylor) Tykolis, Blake Tykolis, Morgan (Braxton) Bliss, and Graham Hungerford; brother, Arnold (Carolyn) Rose; and sister, Darlene Clark; along with a host of extended family and friends. She was also survived by her beloved sister, Mary (Steve) Meyer, who passed away just weeks after Carol. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Services will be held 12:00 p.m. Saturday, June 13 at Sharp Funeral Homes, 6063 Fenton Road, Grand Blanc, Michigan 48507. Visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the Funeral Service at 12:00 p.m. Interment following at Flint Memorial Park Cemetery, Mt. Morris, Michigan.

In loving memory of Carol, we encourage those who knew her to carry forward her legacy of kindness, devotion, and unwavering faith by giving donations in her memory to either the American Cancer Society or American Kidney Fund.

Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com.