Lucile "Lucy" Harding Derkman

Lucile "Lucy" Harding Derkman, age 88, passed away on Tuesday, March 29, 2016 in Tampa, FL. She was born on October 28, 1927 in Mount Dora, FL to the late Frank and Mary (Bean) Harding. Lucy graduated from Mount Dora High School in 1945 and from Florida State University in 1949. She taught school in High Springs, FL for one year and in Lake Placid, FL for two years. She came to Avon Park in the Fall of 1952. Lucy was a member of the First United Methodist Church. She stayed involved in sports, her church, the library, and many other activities. Lucy loved the Avon Park High School and was proud to have taught there. She followed the Red Devil sports and athletes for over 50 years.  Lucy is survived by her husband of 60 years: Richard Derkman of Avon Park, FL; daughter: Mary Linda (Mort) Jackson of Avon Park, FL; son: Richard Edward (Martha) Derkman of Naples, FL; sisters: Lena Holloway, Wini Harding, Doris Crossland, Mary Agnes Galbreath; brother: Bill Harding; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, April 1, 2016 at the Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home in Avon Park, FL. A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 2, 2016 at the First United Methodist Church in Avon Park, FL. Memorial contributions may be made to the: Lucy Derkman Scholarship Fund c/0 Heartland National Bank 800 W. Main St. Avon Park, FL 33825.