Derek Lance Johnson

On April 11, 2025, Derek Lance Johnson peacefully left this world, carrying with him the same grace and warmth that touched everyone he knew. Born in Cheverly, MD, on January 13, 1959, Derek’s life was a story of creativity, humor, and vivid design.

Derek, a graduate of Southern High School in Harwood, MD, began his career as a Graphic Designer at Columbia Graphics, followed by Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory. His creative flair was not just his profession but his passion. He later transitioned to the role of Manager at Total Document Solutions, where he led his team with a blend of wit and wisdom that was uniquely Derek.

Derek was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lynette Kaye Johnson (formerly Haykel), who passed away in 2016. Together, they shared a life filled with laughter, travel, and unconditional love. He is survived by his former spouse, Donna Gannon (formerly Miller), with whom he shared three children: Amber, Lauren, and Ryan Johnson. Derek and Lynette were the proud parents of Austin Johnson. His children were the pride of his life, and he was their unwavering rock. The sparkle in his eye shone brightest when he was with his granddaughters, Andreja Rosier and Lily Twinam, who could always count on “Pop Pop Derek” for warm hugs and endless laughter. Derek’s loving mother, Judy Soder, and his siblings—Mark Johnson, twin sister Daryl Samuelson, Donald Roy, and Michael Roy—were all part of the many vibrant chapters of his life, each one filled with his unique humor and boundless love.

Derek's interests were as eclectic as his sense of humor. He was the king of thrifting and antiquing, always on the hunt for that one item that would perfectly complete his collection. Walks around the lake were his meditative retreats, and trips to the beach were his sunny escapes, but it was the quality time with friends and family that he cherished most. In every gathering, Derek was the life of the party, his funny anecdotes, analytical observations, and creative outlook enriching every moment.

It is said that a person who departs from this earth never truly leaves, for they are still alive in our hearts and minds—through us, they live on. Derek is no exception. He lives on not just in the memories of his beloved family and friends but in every piece of art he created, every joke he told, and every life he touched.

As we bid farewell to Derek, we do so with a smile, knowing that he would want us to remember the good times with laughter, to see the world through his creative lens, and to find the funny in the everyday. Derek will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved him.

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