Maurice Derby

Maurice “Jim” Derby, age 89, of Bloomingdale, NY died Monday January

18, 2021 at AMC-Mercy Health Care in Tupper Lake.

Born in Bloomingdale on January 11, 1932, he was the son of Duke and

Laura (Delcore) Derby.

Jim was a lifelong resident of Bloomingdale and graduated from Saranac

Lake High School. He worked in heavy construction for 10 years and later

worked as a caretaker for the old Millbanks property in St. Regis Falls for

over 30 years until his retirement. Jim was a veteran of the U.S. Army,

serving during the Korean War from 1952 - 1954. Being an avid

outdoorsman, he was a member of the East Branch Hunting Club for many

years.

Jim truly loved his faithful companions, his dogs (and he could name them

all). He enjoyed the wildlife he would encounter in the woods and

wandering in his backyard. He enjoyed the beauty of the Adirondacks and

especially cherished the scenic rides with dear friends, which always ended

with his favorite views from the Norman Ridge Road.

Jim is survived by one son, Duke, of Portland, Oregon. He is also survived

by family members: nephews John Derby of Lake Clear, Brian Derby of

California, Greg Derby of Lake Tahoe and Stephen Derby of California.

Nieces Mary Kay Benham of Saranac Lake, Marissa Holm of California and

Lori El Hakim of Massachusetts.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, sisters Rita Derby and Marie Kennedy, his brothers Duke, Leo, George and John and a nephew Dale Derby.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral home in Saranac Lake. There will be no calling hours. A graveside ceremony, with military honors, will take place in the spring at the St. Paul’s Cemetery in Bloomingdale at the convenience of the family. Family and friends wishing to remember Maurice “Jim” Derby can send memorial contributions in his memory to the Tri Lakes Humane Society in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home, 20 Church Street, Saranac Lake, NY 12983. Family and friends can also share their memories and sign the on-line guest book at www.fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.