William K. “Bill” Derrington, 70, of Newport, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 30, 2025, at Marietta Memorial Hospital, surrounded by those who loved him.
Born on December 16, 1954, in East Liverpool, Ohio, Bill was the only son of Don and Helen Cunningham Derrington. A proud graduate of East Liverpool High School, he went on to serve in the United States Air Force as an aircraft maintenance technician—a role that ignited a lifelong passion for airplanes.
After his military service, Bill pursued a career in industrial drafting. His skill and dedication led him to opportunities with respected companies such as Procter & Gamble, Bayer, and General Electric, with projects taking him to cities including Boston, Cincinnati, and Columbus.
However, it was at Momentive (formerly Union Carbide) where Bill found his true professional home. He spoke often of the friendships he made there and the valuable experiences that allowed him to grow as a draftsman, pipe designer, and project manager. He retired in August 2023, grateful for a fulfilling career.
Beyond his work, Bill’s greatest joy was his family. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, especially cheering them on at their games.
Camping trips, movie nights, and road adventures with his wife brought him happiness—particularly the 3,500-mile drive to Nova Scotia and countless Caribbean cruises.
He found peace in simple pleasures, like relaxing on the back porch and chatting with the birds. His loyal miniature schnauzer, Seymore, was his constant companion for 12 years.
Bill cherished time spent with neighbors, lifelong friends, former coworkers, and members of his church community. Whether in conversation or quiet reflection, he brought warmth and sincerity to every moment.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jane; his children: Eric (Lisa) Derrington, Kristy (Randy) Zakrzewski, and Dan (Jada) Derrington; stepchildren: Karen (Tim) Shrimpton and Jonathan McGoldrick; grandchildren: Chandler, Chase, Tatum, Michael J. (Candace), Ashlyn, Liam, and Cooper; and step-grandchildren: Alex, Oliver, and Jake. He is also survived by his sisters: Janet (Wayne) Christen, Debbie Stewart, and Missy (Mark) O’Hanlon.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter-in-law Natalie Derrington, and his stepdaughter Lydia Wilson.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church in Marietta, officiated by Rev. Mike Seely. Per Bill’s wishes, his ashes will be scattered in the Caribbean Sea near the spot where his father’s were released—a place dear to his heart.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Bill’s memory to:
- GoPacks, 501 Fourth St., Marietta, Ohio 45750
- People’s Bank Theatre (via Marietta Community Foundation), P.O. Box 77, Marietta, Ohio 45750
Cawley & Peoples Funeral Home of Marietta is honored to assist the Derrington family. Bill Derrington’s legacy is one of service, love, and quiet strength. He will be missed dearly, but remembered always.
