Derek Levy

Levy ~ Derek “DJ” Alward Jackson-Levy was born May 2, 1969, in Jacksonville, Florida to the late Evelyn J. Gauldin-Jackson & John Levy.  DJ was only five years old when his mother passed away. He was then raised by his grandmother, Fannie Howard (deceased); aunt, Cornelius ‘Dolly’ Byers; uncle, Larry Byers; and aunt, Sylvia Wills.  DJ attended Charles W. Eliott Elementary school in Pasadena, California and graduated from William M. Raines High School in Jacksonville, Florida, class of 1987. After high school, he proceeded to teach himself many skills from automotive mechanics and carpentry to construction and electrical, just to name a few.  DJ was the “Jack of all trades” and there was nothing he couldn’t do or fix.  He was a helping hand to everyone who knew him and the one you could call whenever in need. DJ passed along his knowledge willingly to anyone who would receive it.

DJ had a deep love for all his family, and he shared his love with the wife of his youth, Jacqueline L. Gardner.  Together, they raised three amazing sons, Derek Jr., DeWayne and DeAndre Jackson.  Then, in 1994, his little princess Denecia Jackson was born, and she was the apple of his eye. DJ was a loving, caring and supporting father to his children, grandchildren and probably your children too.  He loved nothing more than talking and spending quality time with them and ensuring that their needs were met. DJ was the most affectionate, warm-hearted and laidback person that you could ever imagine.  He was dedicated, loyal and full of patience; a gentle giant that never lost his cool no matter the situation.  DJ was tactful and a perfect gentleman all while remaining calm during the storms.  He took delight in finding ways to keep us safe out of harm’s way and loved, despite his own battles.  DJ was a skillful handyman that could operate and restore anything he touched, even your heart.  He was a giver of his advice, space and time and very respectful to all, no matter their age.  DJ was always cheerful and sentimental, spreading love, truth and wisdom to brighten the day of all he encountered. If you had the pleasure of knowing him, you knew that… HE LOVED YOU, AND THERE WAS NOTHING YOU COULD DO ABOUT IT!!!!

Derek A. Jackson-Levy was unlike any other and he touched the lives of so many.  He will forever be missed and will live in the hearts of all his family and friends.  DJ is survived by his children, Derek A. Jr. (Ciarra), DeWayne Sr. (Shayla), DeAndre and Denecia; stepchildren, Brionna and Mario; 17 grandchildren, Derek D. Sr., Daniel, Danielle, Davion, Dedric, Destiny, Desirea, De’One, DeMonei, Wynter, DeWayne Jr., De’Kari, DeOnna, Devyn, Jada, Ja’kalya, Diamond, Quinton and Elijah “Diego”; 1 great-grandchild, Derek D. Jr.; second mom, Cornelius “Dolly” (Larry); siblings, Fannie, James Lee, Larry Jr. (Danielle), LePaul (Wendy), LaLisa, Marcus, Nicolas, Tiffany, Rashad and Ahmad; god daughters, Sha’lisha and Angelina; uncles, aunts, a host of beloved nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate the life of Derek Alward Jackson-Levy, 11 AM Saturday, October 16, 2021, at Greater Refuge Temple, 1317 Rowe Avenue.   Visitation Thursday from 5 – 7 PM at The Soutel Chapel.  Because of the love of his family, arrangements entrusted to J. E. Fralin & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services, 5065 Soutel Dr, 904.924.9400. 

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