Derek E. Smiley, J.D.

Obituary

Derek E. Smiley, J.D., of Birmingham, Alabama, passed away peacefully at the age of 66 on October 2, 2026.

Raised in the Birmingham neighborhood of Hooper City, Derek was a man of deep faith, resilience, and extraordinary rhythm. He joined Providence Baptist Church as a young boy, actively participating in its youth organizations and establishing a lifelong sanctuary in his faith. A courageous trailblazer from an early age, Derek graduated from John Herbert Phillips High School, standing proud as one of the first Black students to integrate Birmingham Public Schools.

Derek’s musical journey began at just five years old, when he first sat behind a drum kit. That early passion blossomed into a vibrant, lifelong career. After high school, he attended Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, where he proudly marched as a member of the legendary Marching 100. His gift for music opened doors across the globe: he toured extensively as a longtime drummer for blues icon Clarence Carter and performed for travelers across the Mediterranean Sea aboard the Holland America Cruise Line. Yet, no stage meant more to him than his beloved church home of over 30 years. No matter where his weekend travels took him, Derek always ensured he was back in the sanctuary, ready and joyful to play for both Sunday morning services.

Instilled with strength by his late parents, Percy Sr. and Dorothy Smiley, Derek learned early to face life's obstacles—including occasional epileptic seizures—with unwavering perseverance. Transforming his personal journey into purpose, he founded the Epilepsy Support Group of Birmingham. Through church-hosted meetings, Derek provided a vital space for education, advocacy, and compassionate community support.

Driven by a lifelong dedication to growth and service, Derek earned his Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1984, followed by his Juris Doctor from the Miles College School of Law in 1990. He was also a proud brother of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Above all his professional, academic, and musical achievements, Derek held one triumph closest to his heart: his cherished daughter, Devan, his "Sweetie Pie," whom he loved beyond measure. Equally meaningful was his victory in conquering his battle with prostate cancer, a testament to his unbreakable spirit.

Derek lived as the absolute epitome of courage. Whatever challenges crossed his path, he confronted them head-on, always extending a hand to uplift and bring others along with him.

Derek was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Percy Smiley Sr. and Dorothy Smiley, and his brother, Marvin Smiley.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and strength in his daughter, Devan (Jeffrey); his siblings, Barbara and Percy Jr.; his grandchildren, Carsyn, Caleb, and Jireh; as well as a host of cherished nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.