Obituary of Charles T. Derr

Charles T. "Chuck" Derr "Big Dog", "Big Kahuna" Age 66 of Elmira Heights, NY. He was born January 13, 1957 in Elmira, son of the late Wesley and Julia (Strope) Derr and passed away Friday, January 5, 2024 after a brief illness. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law Raymond and Alice Tanner, Sr. and brother-in-law Raymond Tanner, Jr. Chuck was the most devoted and loving husband of 28 years to his loving wife Laurie (Tanner) Derr. He is also survived by his sisters Sally (Scott) Miller and Ann (Loren) Finch; brother James (Karen) Derr; sisters-in-law and brother-in-law Tina Tanner-Seymour (Donny), William Tanner, Shirley (Chris) Forment along with several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends and his beloved, faithful companion and porch buddy, Ted. Chuck retired from the Elmira Correctional Facility. After graduating from SUNY Cortland, Chuck was a Physical Education teacher and coached girls track and boys soccer for the Elmira City School District. Chuck is the only Elmiran in the NFL Hall of Fame having won the Punt, Pass and Kick competition in 1969 and 1970. Ford sponsored the national competition. Thousands of kids took part and the finals were held during halftime of the NFL playoffs. Chuck threw a pass on line well over 60 yards. Frank Gifford remarked "Keep it in the park Chuck!". Chuck carried the wins with a smile and put Elmira in the Football Hall of Fame. Family and friends are invited to visit Walter J. Kent Funeral Home, 858 Lake St. at Washington Ave., Elmira on Friday, January 12th from 4 to 7 pm. His memorial service will follow at 7 pm. In lieu of flowers, those wishing may remember Chuck through donations to the Southern Tier Police Canine Assoc., 3631 Lorne Dr., Endwell, NY 13760 or the Elmira Small Fry, P.O. Box 975, Elmira, NY 14902. A man of many words and stories could always be seen on his front porch conversing with friends over an adult beverage and a cigar. Chuck was truly a great man whose impact will forever be felt by the family that loves him dearly. Laurie thanks Chuck's sister Ann and niece Dorena for care they provided to them during Chuck's illness.