With heavy hearts, we announce the death of Derick Lee Bluford (Omaha, Nebraska), born in Sioux City, Iowa, who passed away on December 9, 2021 at the age of 58. Family and friends are welcome to send flowers or leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

He was predeceased by : his parents, Dr. Grady L. and Dr. Harriet L. Bluford (Trosper). He is survived by : his sister Dr. Michelle Bluford of Omaha; his aunts, Beatrice and Verona "Cookie" Trosper of Sioux City; and his uncle Everett Jackson of Tullahoma, Tenn. He is also survived by numerous cousins, colleagues and friends.

For your safety and the safety of others, please wear a mask during the Celebration for Derick.

Funeral arrangement under the care of
Reichmuth Funeral Home

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December 21, 2021

Lilyann Schied planted 10 trees

“In memory of Derick Lee Bluford”

December 21, 2021

Nathan Schied planted 10 trees

“In memory of Derick Lee Bluford”

December 12, 2021

Brian and Nancy Davis planted 10 trees

“In memory of Derick Lee Bluford”

Sympathy messages

Would you like to offer Derick Lee Bluford’s loved ones a condolence message? Write your message of sympathy today.

12 people wrote a message from the heart

December 15, 2021

Trish Crafton wrote a sympathy message

“Mr. Bluford, You will be greatly missed. You were a great teacher and always so kind. Rest in peace!”

December 14, 2021

GamerNick BNS Games wrote a sympathy message

“Mr. Bluford had a big impact on my life. May he rest easy knowing he was loved by so many. Sorry for your loss. He will be missed.”

December 14, 2021

Fred Ellwein wrote a sympathy message

“Derick was my brother in Christ. I shall miss you, brother. Although I weep, I know you are truly home.”

December 13, 2021

Someone wrote a sympathy message

“Rest in n peace Derick, prays go out to your family, a good man.”

December 13, 2021

Cassara Brewer wrote a sympathy message

“Derick Bluford had a profound impact on my life and it is a shock to see that he is gone. I’m so sad. I hope you are somewhere now that you hear and conduct all the music you could ever want. Please say hi to Gary Fiscus and Bruce Norris for me. ❤️ I haven’t quite mastered your mantra, “To be early is to be on time, to be on time is to be late…”, but I will keep working on it, for you. It was way too soon for you, Mr. Bluford. I hate this virus.”

December 13, 2021

Amanda G Plummer wrote a sympathy message

“I am sorry for your loss, he was great band Director!”

December 12, 2021

Tammy Frederickson Huntimer wrote a sympathy message

“Sorry for your loss. I was not his student but would chat with him often when he stopped at the gas station I worked at when he was a band instructor in Dell Rapids. He had many smiles, good heart and good conversation.”

December 12, 2021

Wendy Christiansen wrote a sympathy message

“I taught with Derick for 3 years - my heart is broken. So much talent !!! Taught me so much I didn’t know !”

December 12, 2021

Janet Fett wrote a sympathy message

“Michelle, your friends at our office in South Sioux City are so sad to hear of Derick's passing. I loved your parent's, and they were so proud of you and Derick. Our sympathy and prayers are for you, especially through then next few weeks. Hugs. Janet Fett, Kincaid and Fett, South Sioux.”

December 12, 2021

Terry Hanzlik wrote a sympathy message

“I am so sad to hear of Dereks passing. I truly regarded him as a personal and professional friend. Be assured he is with the angels in paradise tonight. Terry Hanzlik”

December 11, 2021

Mark Mason wrote a sympathy message

“I had the pleasure of working with Derrick his first year at Lewis Central and playing in jazz bands and at church with him. Great man who made a huge impact on many RIP my friend!!”

December 11, 2021

Matthew Johnson wrote a sympathy message

“Mr. Bluford was my band director back in 2000-2002. He was instrumental in my lifelong love for music. He was more than a teacher; he was a mentor, role model, and friend. His memory will live on in the lives of the students he taught.”