Derek Allen Flanagan Sr.

Obituary For Derek Allen Flanagan Sr.

Derek Allen Flanagan Sr. was born August 13, 1958, in Warren Ohio, the son of Howard Flanagan Jr. and Naomi (Witherspoon) Flangan. Derek, an exemplary husband, father, and dedicated professional, leaves behind a legacy of love, integrity, and commitment to his family and community.

A graduate of Warren Western Reserve High School, Derek was employed by the City of Warren. He worked in several departments which included environmental services, the water department, ultimately retiring from the wastewater management treatment. Not one to be idle, he also was a funeral attendant for Sterling-McCullough Williams Funeral Home in Warren for several years.

Faith was integral to Derek and he faithful supported the ministry of Grace African Methodist Episcopal Church. He lifted his voice in praise as a member of Grace’s Male Chorus, was a welcoming presence as an usher, promoting health and wellness on the Nurses’ Guild and sought understanding of God’s Will and Word by attending Sunday School.

Derek was a kind and caring person who aided anyone with an identifiable need. Always thinking of others, it was important to him to make others feel valued, happy and comfortable. To know Derek is to love him. He absolutely loved being around his family, watching television, listening to music, dining and dancing.

Derek leaves precious memories to be cherished by his bride Leanne Martin Flanagan, who was united in marriage September 24, 1994. This union produced and nurtured two sons Derek (Cynthia) Flanagan II and Devon Flanagan, both of Warren Ohio.

Amazing moments will be retained by Derek’s brothers Quinton (Christine) Flanagan of Youngstown, Howard (Michelle) Flanagan, Edward (Margie) Flanagan and Patrick (Stephanie) Flanagan Sr., all of Warren and sister Latrice (Mario) Hainesworth also of Warren.

Derek’s legacy is forged by his grandson Kenneth Lelesch of Warren, godson Marshaun Hainsworth of Cleveland, goddaughter Janese Reed of Cincinnati and many relatives and friends.

On May 16, 2025, our Heavenly Father cast His loving and outstretched arms around Derek embracing him as Derek was ushered to his new home that awaited him. As his faith became sight, Derek was reunited with his parents; sisters Adria Flanagan, Cassandra Flanagan; brother Kevin Flanagan, Darrell Flanagan and grandson AJ Flanagan, all who preceded him into eternity.

The Flangan Family is inviting the community to celebrate Derek's remarkable life and while finding solace in shared memories. In remembrance of Derek's life, a public viewing will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Grace AME Church, 1137 Main Ave. SW in Warren. A Celebration of Life service will begin at 12:00 PM with Rev. Dr. Shane K. Floyd officiating.

After a committal ceremony, Derek will be laid to rest at Pineview Cemetery, where he will find peace and a final resting place surrounded by the beauty of nature. As we reflect on Derek's life, let us remember his laughter, kindness, and unwavering spirit. He touched the lives of all who knew him, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Derek Allen Flanagan Sr. elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.