Obituary of Derek Eugene Byers
In Loving Memory of Derek Eugene Byers
Derek Eugene Byers, age 57, was called home to the Lord on Wednesday, May 8th, 2024, at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in Newark, NJ, with his devoted mother by his side. Born on August 13, 1966, in Perth Amboy, NJ, to Eugene Benjamin and Barbara Jean Byers, Derek was a beacon of faith and courage throughout his life.
Raised in Hillside, NJ, Derek's academic achievements shone brightly, graduating as Salutatorian from Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, FL, where he pursued and excelled in Accounting and Economics. Derek was also recognized as a Distinguished High School Graduate from Hillside High School. Upon earning his bachelor’s degree, he joined Pitney Bowes in Stamford, CT, where he was a cherished member of the accounting department.
In the early 2000s, Derek faced a life-altering challenge when diagnosed with cardiomyopathy. Following open heart surgery in 2003, and a severe cardiac arrest in 2005, it was nothing short of a miracle, a testament to God’s mercy, that emergency services were able to swiftly revive him. This profound experience deepened Derek's faith, and he subsequently moved back to Hillside to remain close to his medical team at Newark Beth Israel Hospital.
A devout servant of God, Derek found solace and strength in his faith. During the pandemic and afterwards, he attended Ministry Services on the Victory channel. His days were marked by moments spent in reflection and prayer, often reading passages from the Bible, which he believed were God's direct words to guide him through his trials.
Derek also possessed a profound love for nature, frequently taking tranquil walks in the park, usually accompanied by his loving mother. His writing, often reflections on his faith and experiences, touched all who had the privilege to read his words.
Derek is now reunited in Heaven with his father, Eugene Benjamin Byers Sr., and his aunt, Shelia Fay Mulky. He leaves behind his adoring mother, Barbara Byers; brother, Eugene Benjamin Byers II; aunts Joanne Gaunt (Melvin), Cheryl Berffet, Velma Johnson (James), Martha Griffin, and Meshell Cason; along with many cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will continue to cherish his memory.
In Derek's memory, let us hold fast to the promise of eternal life and the peace that surpasses all understanding, as we find comfort in the knowledge that he is at peace with our Lord.
A celebration of Derek's life and faith will be held on Thursday, May 16th, 2024, at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ 07069, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. followed by a service at the funeral home commencing at 12 p.m. Cremation will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the NJ Tissue Sharing Network, the American Heart Foundation, or the Cardiac Transplant Team at Newark Beth Israel Hospital.
