Derek Burpo

Derek Marcus “Dink” Burpo, 51, of Birmingham, Alabama, passed away on January 1, 2025. Born September 27, 1973, Derek was known to family and friends for his steady, humble spirit and his deep sense of responsibility to those he loved. A 1991 graduate of Huffman High School, he pursued higher learning at Alabama State University and continued his academic journey into graduate study, earning an MBA and undertaking further doctoral work with determination.

Derek balanced his scholarly ambitions with a strong work ethic. For the last couple of years he served his community as a delivery driver, a job he embraced to provide for his family. Those who knew him remember a soft-spoken man who quietly carried the everyday duties of life — showing love through care and reliability. He was the primary caregiver for his elderly mother, a role he fulfilled with patience and devotion.

Family and friends recall Derek as gentle, respectful, and thoughtful — someone who preferred action over words and who found meaning in caring for others. His presence in the neighborhood and among coworkers was marked by a calm dedication; colleagues described him as pleasant to be around and committed to doing his job well.

A public celebration of Derek’s life was held at Greater Grace Missionary Baptist Church, with visitation at Grey-Bushelon Funeral Services and burial at Elmwood Cemetery. In place of further words about the manner of his death, his loved ones have asked that Derek be remembered for who he was in life: a son, a steady hand, and a man who worked to support and protect his family.

Those who wish to honor Derek’s memory are invited to join in the family’s remembrance services and to carry forward the quiet compassion he showed in life.