Derrell Ray Sage

August 12, 1937 ~ January 20, 2021

© Parks Brothers Funeral Home
Reprinted with permission

Submitted by: Terry Dudley

On Wednesday, January 20, 2021, Derrell Ray Sage devoted husband and loving “Papa” passed away at the age of 83. Derrell was born on August 12, 1937 in Kendrick, OK to Ridley and Bessie (Anderson) Sage. He began his education walking to school with his 3 sisters to the Morning Star School near the family farm in Lincoln County and graduated from Chandler High School with the class of 1955. He continued his education later in life at Central State University in 1964.

Derrell served his country honorably from October 1957 with the Oklahoma National Guard for the next 41 years and retired in the rank Chief Warrant Officer 4. Some of his fondest memories were those years with his brother in arms with the 160th Field Artillery, 45th Infantry Division headquartered in Chandler, OK.

In 1958, Derrell began working for the Lincoln County News running the printing press where he worked tirelessly printing the weekly paper, sale bills, fliers, voter ballots, ID cards, and almost everything that was printed in Lincoln County at the time. In 1974, he purchased the Chandler Memorial Works where he put his creative talents and compassionate spirit to work creating monuments for families and businesses across the state of Oklahoma for the next 28 years.

It was on October, 24th, 1958, Derrell and his high school sweetheart, Vivian Johnson, eloped in El Reno, Oklahoma. As Chandler residents their entire lives, they raised their children, Robin, Michael, Mark, Darrin, and George. With a servants heart, Derrell served his community as a member of the City Council, School Board President, and member of the Lions Club. He was a proud member of the First Assembly of God Church in Wellston.

He will also be remembered by everyone he met for his infectious smile and genuine personality. His love and kindness for others touched so many. He could often be found at a local coffee shop in Chandler sharing his enthusiasm for history, his pride in his Choctaw heritage and culture, and information on his collection of Native American artifacts and studies. He was a passionate reader of western history, well known as a born again gold prospector who was full of adventure, and fierce opponent in family domino tournaments. His captivating stories, caring heart, and compassionate spirit will be missed by all who knew him and loved him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his beloved sisters Cloeta and Sharlene, and his precious son Mark Ross. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Vivian; his four children Robin Reece and Kevin; Michael Sage; Darrin Sage and Annette; George Johnson and Sherri; and his sister Sharon Hulsey along with a multitude of family and friends. His pride and joy in life were his six grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren.

The Graveside Service will be held at Chandler’s Oak Park Cemetery at 2:00 PM on January 26, 2021. Visitation will be at the Parks Brothers Funeral Home in Chandler Monday, January 25, 2021 from 8:00 am to 8:00pm. Condolences may be offered online at www.parksbrothers.net. Services are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Chandler, OK.