Derrell Loyd Havins

Derrell Loyd Havins was born on April 1, 1939, in Prescott, Arizona, to Loyd and Ernestine Havins. He was the second of four boys and, true to his April Fools’ birthday, brought laughter and mischief with him from the very beginning.

In 1941, the Havins family moved to North Groesbeck, Texas, where Derrell spent his childhood and teenage years. He attended Quanah High School, where he met the love of his life, Nola Mae Moore. The two fell in love, married shortly after graduation, and began a life together that would be marked by devotion, faith, and family. They made their home in Amarillo, Texas, where they worked hard and raised their children.

Derrell spent his career serving others through his work in safety. He worked as Safety Director for Pioneer Oil and Gas and later retired from the Texas Cattle Feeders Association. Even in retirement, Derrell wasn’t done helping people — he continued teaching and consulting on safety issues and teaching CPR to businesses across the area, always passionate about protecting and caring for others.

Derrell and Nola were blessed with three children: Mark, Cheryl, and Monty. A family man at heart, some of the fondest memories his children hold are spent in the car traveling to see grandparents, along with lake trips, camping adventures, and ski trips. As much as he loved being a father, Derrell absolutely adored being a grandfather, delighting in each of his grandchildren and later his great-grandchildren.

Anyone who knew Derrell knew his ornery spirit, quick wit, and silly jokes. He was rarely seen without his jeans, boots, and a great cowboy hat. Born on April Fools’ Day, he took that responsibility seriously, spreading laughter wherever he went. Underneath the humor was a deep and steady faith — Derrell loved Jesus, and his life reflected that love through kindness, service, and joy.

Derrell was preceded in death by his parents, Loyd and Ernestine Havins; his beloved wife, Nola Havins; and his son, Mark Havins.

He is survived by his daughter, Cheryl Hudson and husband Ronnie of Amarillo; his daughter in law, Karen Havins, wife of Mark Havins of Lubbock; his son Monty Havins and wife Sheila of Indianapolis; his grandchildren Halie Peitz and husband Cody of Lubbock, Jarrett Hudson and wife Haleigh of Canyon, Justin Havins and wife Mary of Fort Worth, Taylor Havins of Fort Worth, Hunter Havins of Austin, Coby Havins of Amarillo, and Kelbi Havins of Indianapolis; five great-grandchildren; his brothers Dale, Bobby, and David Havins and their spouses; and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

Derrell’s legacy lives on in the laughter he shared, the family he cherished, and the faith that guided his life. 

Dust off your boots and jeans to honor Derrell at his Celebration of Life.