Thomas C. Derby

Thomas C. Derby, 72, of Weirton, WV, passed away with his family by his side on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at WVU Medicine – Weirton. Born on Christmas Day in 1952 in Steubenville, OH, Tom was one of four children born to Allen and Laura Potts Derby.

A 1970 graduate of Weir High School, Tom initially began working at Weirton Steel. However, from a young age, he felt a deep calling to serve the Lord. On August 2, 1974, he married his wife, Deborah Green Derby, whom he met through mutual friends at the Church of Christ on West Street in Weirton. After a year of marriage, Tom followed his calling and, alongside Debbie, moved to Tennessee, where he enrolled in the East Tennessee School of Preaching and Missions. He earned a bachelor’s degree in biblical studies, beginning a lifelong mission of ministry.

Throughout his career, Tom faithfully preached at Churches of Christ in Tennessee, Hanoverton, and Lisbon, Ohio, as well as in Weirton, WV, at both the Weirton Heights Church of Christ and, most recently, the Colliers Way Church of Christ. His dedication to his faith and his congregations was unwavering, touching countless lives with his wisdom, kindness, and devotion.

In 2003, Tom endured a massive heart attack and was not expected to survive. However, in 2004, he received the gift of life through a heart transplant, blessing him and his family with an additional 21 years together. He continued his ministry and service to others until his retirement as minister of the Colliers Way Church of Christ in Weirton.

Tom was also an active member of the Weirton Ministerial Association and volunteered as a clergyman at Weirton Medical Center, providing comfort and guidance to those in need.

In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his brother, Mark E. Derby, and his brother-in-law, Nick Apesos.

Tom’s life was a testament to faith, love, and service. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion to his family, his faith, and the many lives he touched along his journey including, his loving wife of over 50 years, Deborah Green Derby; his sons, Thomas Andrew (Sarah) Derby and Ryan (Grayson Hendrickson) Derby; his daughter, Emily (Jerry) Mostella; his sisters, Jane Apesos and Ginny (Frank) Smith; his sister-in-law, Jac Derby; ten grandchildren: Alexandra Wise, A.J. Javens, Sam Pagani, Elizabeth, Emma, Elliott, and Jerry Mostella III, Oliver and Jack Hendrickson, and Juniper Derby; and a great-granddaughter, Haley Shultz.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at Colliers Way Church of Christ, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM, followed by a 12:00 Noon service. Food and fellowship will follow the service. Ministers Brian Renk, Jim Foglio, and Gary Bailey will preside over the celebration of Tom’s life.

Arrangements are under the direct care of Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, Weirton.

Memorial contributions in Tom’s memory may be made to Colliers Way Church of Christ, 612 Colliers Way, Weirton, WV 26062.

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