Derek Kelley

Derek Donnell Kelley

May 1, 1963 - September 20, 2022

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." –2 Timothy 4:7

Anyone who knew Derek also had the pleasure of being greeted by his warm smile– complete with perfect, pearly white teeth. His quick wit and sense of humor endeared him to everyone who met him. He was a great communicator with an open and welcoming demeanor that made him easy to talk to and impossible to forget. Highly intelligent and gifted in many areas, Derek wore many hats throughout his life and career. He served as a Detroit police officer, owned several different businesses, provided transportation for people with disabilities through his Heaven Driven ministry, and most recently worked as a heavy haul truck driver. Derek had a heart for lost souls and through his nonprofit organization, One Seed Ministries, he sought to ensure that everyone would come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. His faith in God and his love for Jesus and his family took center stage in his life and defines his legacy. Derek was not only a devoted son, father, brother and friend, he was truly an overcomer. His faith, perseverance and determination allowed him to be a witness and a testimony to the goodness of God even throughout his health struggles. He left an indelible impact on every life he touched and fought the good fight of faith valiantly while blessing and encouraging everyone he encountered along the way.

Derek was born on May 1, 1963, in Detroit, Michigan. He graduated from Highland Park High School in 1981. He was the only son of the late Merlin Kelley and Carolyn Kelley. He is survived by his Mother, Carolyn (Kelley) Lawrence and stepfather, Michael Lawrence; his siblings, Tracey Lejos, Nichole Kelley-Korson (Jason) and Tennille Kelley; his children, Ambure Kelley-Underwood (Ron), Brittany, Taylor and Brett Kelley; Uncle, Dr. Donald Gray; Aunts, Joann Gray and Myrna Edgerson; nephews and niece, Noah, Isaac  and Glory Korson; Diana Brown, Aida Tanglao and Nicol Paige and many other extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Merlin Kelley, maternal grandparents K.D. and Corine Lacey, paternal Grandmother Thelma Kelley and niece, Chloe Korson.

A memorial service celebrating Derek's life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 15, 2022 at Elim Restoration Ministries,

13325 E. 14 Mile Rd., Sterling Heights, MI 48312.