Deryck Maurice Woods

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” II Timothy 4:7

Deryck “Ricky” Woods was born on April 4, 1962, to the late Roy Woods and Lorraine Braggs. He was lovingly raised by Sylvia “Bobo” Braggs in St. Louis, Missouri.

He graduated from Vashon High School and later attended Dana College in Blair, Nebraska, where he proudly played football at both institutions. Deryck was a gifted entrepreneur who worked in various fields, including the insurance industry, mortgage banking, finance, automotive sales and consulting. His passion for being “the master of his universe,” combined with his deep commitment to providing for his family, fueled his drive for success in life.

Deryck had two children, Domonique and Deryck II, whom he loved deeply and helped raise with pride. In 2004, he married the love of his life, DeShon Wailes, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Their union was blessed with three children—Zeryck, Zariah, and Jaiden—whom they lovingly raised together.

Deryck and DeShon shared a love that was unshakeable—one built on faith, friendship, loyalty, and a deep mutual respect. She was not only his wife but his confidant, his strength, and his safe place. Through every joy and every trial, including the challenges of his illness, they walked side by side. DeShon remained his constant support, his devoted caretaker, and his fiercest advocate. Together, they faced each day with courage, tenderness, and an unspoken understanding that love can carry what the body cannot. Their partnership was a testament to commitment, resilience, and the enduring power of a love that never let go.

Fatherhood was one of Deryck’s greatest joys and defining purposes. He was the kind of father who showed up—for school events, hard conversations, celebrations, and every moment in between. He poured love, discipline, music, humor, and wisdom into each of his children. He taught them strength, courage, faith, and how to stand tall in this world. Whether offering guidance, cracking jokes, picking a song of the day, grilling for the family, or simply being present, Deryck took great pride in being a protector, provider, and anchor for his children. His love for them was unwavering, and he carried the responsibility of fatherhood with honor, passion, and a heartfelt devotion that will live on in each of them.

Deryck was a loving and brave soul who never met a stranger. Hard and tough on the outside, yet soft-hearted and lovable on the inside, he was always ready with wisdom—whether you wanted it or not. He loved deeply, fought courageously, and lived generously. He never wanted anyone to worry about him because he was too busy giving of himself. Deryck spoke his mind boldly, always from a place of love, wanting the very best for everyone around him.

In His Memory

Deryck Woods was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who has departed this earthly life and journeyed home to be with the Lord. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him, all who loved him, and all who will forever cherish his memory.

He is survived by his loving wife, DeShon Woods; their children Zeryck, Zariah, and Jaiden Woods; his children Domonique Crawford and Deryck (Richena) Woods II; and one grandchild, Julian Crawford. He also leaves to cherish his memory his sister, Monica Woods, of Las Vegas, Nevada, his brother, Damon Braggs, of St. Louis, Missouri, and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, family members, and friends.

Deryck was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Cara “Stormi” Braggs and Traci Braggs; his grandparents; and other cherished loved ones who now welcome him home.