Derrick Rodney Wright passed away in Suwanee, Georgia, USA on July 20, 2026, at the age of 74. Born on December 9, 1951, in Jones Town, Kingston, Jamaica, Derrick lived a life marked by determination, education, service, and a deep devotion to his family and community.

From a very young age, Derrick valued education and the pursuit of knowledge. Because he wore glasses from an early age and carried himself with a naturally studious air, he earned the childhood nickname “Professor.” He began his education at Jones Town Primary School before attending Kingston College, an all-boys secondary school in Jamaica, from January 1963 through June 1968. His years there fostered a lifelong connection to the school and its proud Fortis tradition, rooted in the motto, “The brave may fall, but never yield.” He carried that spirit of perseverance, courage, and loyalty throughout his life.

Derrick continued his education in the United States, earning a Bachelor of Science in Computer Technology from the University of New Haven. He later earned a Master of Science in Technology Management from Mercer University in Atlanta. His commitment to learning did not end there. He pursued doctoral-level research in information systems at Nova Southeastern University in Florida and reached ABD status, having completed all requirements except the dissertation. His educational journey reflected not only his intellectual ability, but also his lifelong belief in discipline, growth, and the value of knowledge.

After completing his university studies, Derrick built a long and accomplished career in technology and education. He began working for the Bell System in 1978 as a systems analyst and later served as a manager of systems development at BellSouth. He subsequently worked as a technical consultant on assignments for organizations including the United States Department of Energy, Boeing in Seattle, and Guam Telephone. He later worked at Berry College before joining Central Carolina Community College, where he taught computer science for ten years, until his retirement.

Derrick’s faith was an important and personal part of his life. He spent nearly three decades as a member and leader at Central Christian Church in Atlanta, Georgia. After moving to North Carolina for work, he continued to worship and attend services in Sanford. During his retirement years, he regularly attended church near Boynton Beach, Florida. He revered worship, fellowship, and his relationship with God.

Derrick was deeply committed to the Jamaican community in Atlanta and to maintaining meaningful connections with Jamaica. As a proud alumnus of Kingston College, he remained actively involved with the Kingston College Old Boys’ Association of Atlanta, serving the organization in various capacities and supporting its scholarship, fundraising, and community-building efforts.

He was also a lifetime member of the Atlanta Jamaican Association, serving as its president from 1982 through 1986 and remaining involved in its cultural, civic, and charitable activities. Derrick was an active participant in the Atlanta-Montego Bay Sister City Annual Health Mission trip and looked forward to serving underprivileged individuals through the mission’s medical outreach efforts.

Beyond his professional achievements and community service, Derrick will be remembered for the unmistakable presence he brought into the lives of those around him. His humor, stories, strong opinions, and distinctive personality left a lasting impression on his family, friends, colleagues, classmates, and community.

Derrick was preceded in death by his father, Phillip Wright; his mother, Una Coke; and his brother, Donovan Wright. He is survived by his children and grandchildren; his brother, Paul Barclay; his sister, Beverley Hall; nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and dear friends.

A service will be held on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at the Royal Grace Assembly, 3755 Centerville Hwy, Snellville, GA 30039.