It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Charles T. “Chuck” Derr III, 70, who left us peacefully on Aug. 11, 2026, at Reading Hospital.
Born on March 11, 1956, to the late Charles T. Derr Jr. and MaryAnn Derr (Ginnetto) in Lebanon, PA, Charles was a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished grandfather whose life touched many.
Charles was a veteran of the National Guard and dedicated his career as a House Parent at Bethany Children’s Home, where he made a lasting impact on the lives of countless children. His nurturing spirit extended beyond his profession, as he found immense joy in spending time with his grandchildren, Reese, Nolan, Jeremy Jr., and Giovanni.
An avid enthusiast of fishing and hunting, Charles enjoyed exploring the great outdoors and often turned his interests into precious family moments. He was also a coin collector and football card collector, often sharing stories and insights that sparked curiosity in others.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy Derr (Mitchell); son, Ryan Derr, and daughter-in-law, Nicole Derr; daughter, Meghan Pagan, and son-in-law, Jeremy Pagan; grandchildren; and caring siblings, Stephen Derr, Randy Derr, and Marianne Derr. He will also be remembered fondly by his cousin, BettyAnn Uhrich.
Charles’s kindness, generosity, and love for his family will be dearly missed but lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Charles’s life. A public viewing will be held at Christman’s Funeral Home Inc. on Monday, Aug. 17, 2026, from 6-8 p.m. Funeral Mass will occur at St. Benedict the Abbot Church on Aug. 18, 2026, starting at 12 p.m., with an additional public viewing at the church at 11 a.m. Interment will take place at Grand View Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Humane Society of Lebanon County, 150 N. Ramona Road, Myerstown, PA 17067.
