March 31, 1935 ~ June 18, 2023 (age 88)
Margie, also known as Marni Nell or MoMo, was born in Bisbee, Arizona, on March 31, 1935, to Mae (Smith) and Ray Pernell. Being an only child she found instant friendship in her eclectic city, with her childhood friend Kathy Phillips. Their adventures included watching the minor league baseball team the Copper Kings and hunting for gems like Malachite, which was found in her backyard. Margie’s family moved from England to Bisbee so they could take advantage of one of the largest copper mines in the country, and her father quickly found his place as a chemist.
At age 24, she gravitated toward the medical field like her mother. Margie met the love of her life, Texan Frank Derrick, while working as an X-Ray technician. Their love story was set into motion after his on-the-job injury brought him to her department. It was love at first sight, and it became a marriage that lasted 58 years. The two soon grew into five, which included Colleen, Matthew and Laurie. Their home, which was always the one where the neighborhood kids gathered, also included furry friends like their Basset Hounds’ Queen Bee and Mandy. And, later their pack included Welsh Corgis like Maggie May, Dixie Bell and Levi.
When Margie first met her Texan, she had never heard of black-eyed peas, plus she had never attempted to make cream gravy. That all quickly changed with the help of her mother-in-law Thursa Derrick. No matter what community group or school program needed help, Margie’s heart was always open to giving. She took great pride in being a reading mentor at local elementary schools, and she also reveled in helping further the cause of the Stephenville Library Board, Twentieth Century Club and St. Brendan’s Ladies Guild.
Margie’s laughter was infectious, her quick wit was fun to keep up with and her love for her family was simply amazing. She was a big believer in guardian angels, and she wants you to know your’s is watching over you. Survivors include children Colleen Horning and husband Rob of Victoria, Texas. Matthew Derrick of Dallas, Texas, and Laurie Gaiser and husband, Jeff Gaiser of Stephenville, Texas. Grandchildren include Sterling Horning (who she just knows will win an Emmy, Grammy and Academy Award) and Matthew Derrick, II.There are also many nieces, nephews, and cousins she kept up with plus her best friend Kathy Phillips of Bisbee, Arizona! She was preceded in death by her Tall Texan, Frank Derrick and her parents.
If you would like to make a donation, please donate to the Erath County Human Society.
Magie’s funeral service will be at St. Brendan’s Catholic Church at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, June 22. Visitation will be held Wednesday, June 21, at Lacy Funeral Home from 4:30-7:00 P.M. with a Rosary to follow.
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