BEVERLY- Derick V. Willson, 96, beloved husband of Catherine (Roberts) Willson, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2018 at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers.

Born in Troy, New York, he was the son of Francis C. and Marguerete (Phennig) Willson. Derick graduated from Melrose High School and he continued his education at Norwich University and the University of Vermont where he received his Master's Degree in Education.

An honorably discharged veteran, he served his country in the Army Signal Corp during World War II. Derick began his teaching career at the Perkins School for the Blind. He continued his career as an educator in the Reading, Melrose and Danvers public school systems until his retirement.

A longtime resident of Beverly, Derick was a member of St. Peter's Episcopal Church where he served on the vestry. As a Master Mason for 74 years, he was a member of the Liberty Lodge AF & AM in Beverly and the Golden Fleece Lodge AF & AM in Lynn. Derick was very involved in community service. He was an executive member of the Friends of the Council on Aging for 15 years and a volunteer for the Beverly Parks and Recreation Department for 10 years. Derick was also involved in the Boys Scouts, American Red Cross and the Cove Community Center.

With a twinkle in his eye and a bright smile, Derick easily developed strong connections with people. Derick was adventurous and he traveled throughout the world, taking his family across the country and enjoying trips to Europe with his wife. Derick was an avid reader and he enjoyed traveling, boating, landscaping, storytelling and the beauty of Vermont.

In addition to his wife with whom he shared 62 years of marriage, he is survived by his children; Susan Willson-Goucher and son-in-law Mark , Derick Willson Jr. and daughter-in-law Judy, Cynthia DiVincenzo and son- in-law Ronald. He cherished his eight grandchildren,Taryn, Eric, and Timothy Goucher, Tyler and David Willson and Derick, Devin and Robert DiVincenzo.

Arrangements: A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 28 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 4 Ocean Street, Beverly, MA. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Donations in his memory can be made to St. Peter's Episcopal Church or the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers, MA. Arrangements by Murphy Funeral Home, Salem MA.  For additional information or online guest book please call 978-744-0497 or visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com .