celebrate the remarkable life of DAVID SMIth (SAMPLE)
A Life of Wisdom, Adventure, and Unwavering Love
On August 8, 2023, the world lost an extraordinary man, Derek Lamont Farmer, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 61. Born on May 29, 1962, Derek lived a life filled with curiosity, love, and boundless generosity. While his passing came as a shock, the legacy he leaves behind is one of immense inspiration, marked by a deep commitment to his family, his community, and the pursuit of lifelong learning.
Professional Journey
Derek’s professional journey was as diverse as it was impactful. A man of many talents, he built careers in finance, served as a Polymer Technologist, a Trusted Federal Government Advisor, and a Tax Preparer. His work shaped countless lives and organizations, offering wisdom that extended far beyond business, touching everyone he met with his integrity, kindness, and generosity. He held a Bachelor’s degree, but his real education came from his insatiable appetite for knowledge. His bookshelves brimmed with well-loved copies of Who Moved My Cheese, Retiring Happy, and books on tax loopholes, mirroring his wide-ranging interests and constant pursuit of understanding.
Joys in life, Big and small
Derek was a master at perfecting the art of adventure. His life was a canvas of exciting experiences and bold explorations. He believed in pushing boundaries and stepping out of comfort zones, not just for the thrill, but for the growth and wisdom that come from embracing new challenges.
A perfect day for Derek involved immersing himself in nature, taking long walks and appreciating the beauty around him. He found joy in simple pleasures, his face lighting up at the sight of cartoons or while dancing to the tunes of his favorite Jazz music and Prince’s greatest hits. He was an avid fan of “This Old House,” “Tiny House Nation,” and CNBC, reflecting his interests in construction, innovation, and finance.
Family is Everything
His greatest joy, however, was not found in his professional accomplishments but in his role as a loving husband to Dr. Charlotte Farmer, his wife of 35 years, and a devoted father to his three sons, James, Derel, and Nia. Derek believed that family was the center of his world, and his unconditional love and guidance were constants in their lives. He particularly enjoyed family reunions, where he could connect with loved ones and create lasting memories.
One of Derek’s proudest achievements was seeing his sons grow into independent, thoughtful individuals, carrying forward his legacy of lifelong learning and love for life. He instilled in his sons a love for exploration and learning, teaching them the value of curiosity, resilience, and self-sufficiency. His spirit will live on through them, and through the Farmer Foundation, established in his memory, which will continue his dedication to lifelong learning and empowering others.
Learning by Roaming
Derek’s adventurous spirit extended far beyond his professional endeavors. He was a man of the world, enthralled by different cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. With his family by his side, he embarked on unforgettable trips to Malta, the Maldives, South Africa, and beyond, exploring the beauty of both cities and nature. A particular visit to a European museum, where he encountered the Black Madonna, left a profound and lasting impression on him, touching his soul and deepening his spiritual journey.
Heart of Gold
Derek’s heart for giving was just as powerful as his sense of adventure. He was not only a man of action but also one of deep compassion. His financial expertise was often shared with those less fortunate, as he believed in lifting others as he climbed. His mentorship extended to his community, where he served on several boards, earning the prestigious “Point of Light” award for his service. His generosity was felt in quiet moments, from offering financial advice to giving money to street performers, always aiming to empower others.
His Simple Pleasures
Closer to home, Derek found joy in simpler adventures—like hiking through state parks, breathing in the fresh air, and marveling at cascading waterfalls. His love for automobiles mirrored this sense of freedom. Teaching others to drive standard transmission, a skill requiring patience and trust, reflected his belief in empowering those around him. His passion for home improvement and DIY projects turned his home into a space filled with creativity and love. Whether watching This Old House, dancing to jazz or Prince’s greatest hits, or laughing at cartoons, Derek’s joy for life was contagious. His boundless energy and zest for discovery extended to every corner of his world.
A Trusted Friend
His friendships ran deep, like the one he shared with John Mason, with whom he embarked on memorable camping trips. He is trusted and loved by his friends to the extent he was invited to play the role of “the fatherly figure” on their weddings.
Legacy in Kindness
David’s mission extended beyond personal achievement. He dedicated himself to inspiring individuals to deepen their connection with nature and discover their true potential. Through his work and personal example, he encouraged others to embrace adventure, seek wisdom, and live life to its fullest. If you would like to continue David’s legacy, please help the Smith Family Foundation.
FAREWELL, DEREK
Derek will be remembered as a wise investor, a lifelong learner, and a man who lived life on his own terms. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and a passion for exploration that will continue to inspire those who knew him. His memory will be cherished, and his spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched. In his memory, his family plans to establish the Farmer Foundation, dedicated to supporting lifelong learning initiatives and honoring Derek’s commitment to empowering others through knowledge.
Though Derek’s presence will be missed, his light continues to shine, guiding us toward wisdom, kindness, and the joy of exploration. Rest in peace, dear Derek. You have left the world better than you found it, and your spirit lives on in all who were fortunate enough to know you.
Every life deserves its own story, no matter how humble…
Ready to start your own story?
Like what you just read? Why not create one for your loved ones? Together, we can capture their true spirit before it fades from memory. This isn’t just an obituary—it’s a way to ensure their unique legacy lives on. Let’s create a meaningful tribute that honors their life and preserves their true spirits.