Alexander J. Derry

Albany-Alexander J. Derry, 90, died Sunday, April 1, 2012 at home. Born in Manchester, he was the son of the late Alexander and Frances Derry. He was the beloved husband to Doris K. Derry for 67 years. Father to Alan R. Derry (Corinne), Cynthia Feltman (Richard), Lynn Derry (George Chelius) and Brian Derry (Lynda Lombardo); six grandchildren, Stephanie, Christopher, Peter, Kaitlyn, Anna and Ben; two step children Francesca and Ali; four step great grandchildren Matteo, Olivia, Luca and Marco; he is survived by his twin sister Alice Warnock, several nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. Al graduated from Burr and Burton Seminary in Manchester in 1939 where he was considered to be the greatest natural athlete to graduate from that school. He excelled in basketball, baseball, tennis, golf and skiing. A Junior State champ in golf, he remained a scratch golfer most of his adult life. He also played semi-professional baseball as a young man. He graduated from Albany Business College and spent his career at the D & H Railroad as a claims agent, retiring in 1978, never having missed a day’s work. Al then spent another nine years working in the NYS Assembly, finally retiring in 1997. He enlisted in the Army in 1940 where he became a champion boxer. Medically discharged as a Master Sergeant, he came to Albany to find his twin sister Alice. Shortly thereafter he met the love of his life, Doris (who conveniently lived around the corner) and they were married on October 12, 1945. Al was past commander of the former VFW Fagan Post. He was a communicant of Blessed Sacrament Church for almost 50 years, where he served for many years as an officer of the Holy Name Society. Al was especially proud of his wife and family considering this his finest and abiding accomplishment in a long and unusually challenging life. His family lovingly feels likewise. His continued care, concern and stewardship were exemplary and his unstinting love and presence in our lives will be with us always. Funeral services Wednesday, April 4, 2012 at 9:45 am from the McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 North Allen Street, Albany thence to Blessed Sacrament Church, Albany at 10:30 am where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Relatives and friends are invited and may call Tuesday, April 3, 2012 4:00 to 7:00 pm in the funeral home. Interment Our Lady of Angels Cemetery. To leave the family a special message on their guest book, obtain a prayer card or directions, or share a photo with them, please visit www.McveighFuneralHome.com.

Tributes

Alexander J. Derry

May 16, 1921 - April 1, 2012