Marshall Derry
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Marshall Derry, 75, of Nashua, NH and Naples, FL, on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at Naples Community Hospital in Naples, FL. With the love of his life, Pamela (Hurley) Derry holding his hand, he found peace and release from a period of failing health. Though he fought valiantly, it was not an issue of strength.
He was born in New London CT on August 22, 1948, to the late Charles Derry and the late Constance (Botchis Derry) Romeo. As the first of four boys, the consummate leader and big brother, he led the way. Michael, Steve, and Bill never stopped seeking his advice and guidance. It was a great source of pride for him when his little brother followed in his footsteps and became a teacher and coach. He left his stamp on all 3 of his brothers, not just as a mentor but as a friend. He loved to regale his own children with tales of working alongside his parents and brothers at the family pizza house in New London, CT. It was truly a family affair. In later years, he carried on the tradition of hosting legendary pizza nights for family and friends. Once a month he brought them all together for more than just great food, and it was GREAT, and drinks. Our favorite pizza man would work the oven, if not the room, and soak in the love and laughter that would fill the house.
A talented student and gifted athlete, his hard work led him to Syracuse University. Upon graduation he was employed as a draftsman at Pratt & Whitney, before pursuing his true passion, education.
For 40 years Marshall worked tirelessly in education. From the woodshop at North Branford High School in North Branford CT, he showed his students what was hiding in those blocks of wood. On the softball and football fields, he guided his athletes to not just victory, but taught what it means to be part of a team. Relocating to New Hampshire, he brought his passion to Salem High School. While there he wore many hats, each one with success, grace, and humor. In his later years there, as the Vocational Director, he was fundamental in creating opportunities for all students to not just find their chosen paths but get a head start. His fellow educators surely remember and appreciate not just his achievements, but his quiet way accomplishing the seemingly impossible. He retired from the Nashua School District after 10 years as the Director of the Career and Technical Education Center. As Director he led the Nashua Technology Center renovation and building project for the two new Nashua high schools. This included state-of-the-art lab classrooms to deliver industry aligned curriculum for students.
Education was his passion. But he had 3 true loves. Family, golf and football. From the field to the recliner, he indulged in his love for football. Up until his final days, he found pleasure in watching the game.
“Happiness is a long walk with a putter”. This is a philosophy that Marshall took to heart. From Hawaii to Hilton Head and countless miles of greens, he never missed a chance to get on the course. Finding his second home in Naples on a golf course, it became his happy place. Either playing with his weekly foursome or couples league with his wife, he was happiest with a club in his hand. A close second was soaking in the sun and watching his fellow golfers tee off. Whether he actually shared any of the tips he would mutter to himself is doubtful. Days after his passing, his foursome got to the 18th hole and took a shot for him. A shot right into water. Apparently, this was a habit of his to do so at this particular hole. Being an avid golfer, he would appreciate this sacrifice, as well as the chance for everyone to know this was a frequent occurrence. On the course, in the cart and at the 19th hole, his shadow remains. For all those through the years who had the chance to share a day on the golf course with him, they will have their own memories. Most likely he’ll be smiling in all of them.
Marshall will live on in the hearts and homes of his family and friends. None more so than in the homes he shared with his beloved wife, Pamela. His second chance at love and adventure, truly his other half. Their years together, though not enough of them, were the best times of his life. Pam watched out for, fought for and took care of him. It wasn’t just her love, hard work, and devotion, but his desire not to leave her side that kept him fighting. In the end even a love like theirs couldn’t do the impossible.
Marshall will be kept alive in the minds and hearts of his children. Kim Steger and her husband Patrick of Hooksett, NH, and Sue Levy and her husband Seth of Pinardville, NH. His stepson Chris Kania and his wife Stephanie of Londonderry, NH. His grandchildren Kullen, Sydney, Isabelle, Stephen and Cathryn, adored their Pop. Many times, in years to come, they will feel his loss. Not just at major milestones, but when they remember his quiet patient way of teaching them things and his face in the crowd, cheering them on.
He is also survived by his brothers and their wives, Michael and Vicky Derry of Niantic, CT, Stephen and Cyndy Derry of Madison, CT, and Bill and Kathleen Derry of Niantic, CT as well as several nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, December 12th from 2-4:30pm with notes of remembrance immediately following at Rivet Funeral Home, Merrimack NH. There will be no Mass.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a cause that was important to Marshall and his family; VFW or United Way of Greater Nashua NH.