Derek Emerson Chandler

Derek Emerson Chandler passed away suddenly at his home in the early morning of November 27, 2022, at the age of 56.

Derek was born on July 1, 1966, in San Antonio, TX, and was adopted from Buckner’s Benevolences by Dr. & Mrs. Steve & Amie Chandler of Liberty, TX. He grew up in the historic, small town of Liberty, where he developed his eclectic love of sports, art, and music.

As a young man, teams such as the Houston Aeros, Houston Astros, and Houston Oilers fueled his sports passion. In junior high & high school, Derek became very active in music through the band programs offered and excelled as a member of the drum section, all the while “ walking to the beat of his own drum and tempo.”

Derek graduated from Liberty High School in the Class of ‘ 84, then went on to attend the Art Institute of Houston. He used his artistic gifts for graphic art web design and started his own company, Chandler Fire Safety, to design fire safety sprinkler systems for commercial use.

The ones who knew him best would say….

” Well, you finally have your glasses, Derek. Profanity is the linguistic crutch of an inarticulate individual. He would correct you on the grammar except for Go Stros Go. He loved his Astros and defined where the word fanatic comes from…. fan. A true lover of all things musical. He was always wanting to play new music to anyone that was around. He loved music so much, like a kid in a candy store. Snazzmaster, you will be missed sorely, but your music will always live thru us.”

Above all else, he loved his family and friends. ( more than fine food and beverage) A conversationalist that enjoyed the company of anyone who would listen to him. Talking was his thing. Heaven forbid you messed up with grammar.”

“ We miss you so much already.”

Derek is preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Lairy Steve Chandler and Amie Sewell Chandler. He is survived by many family and friends who love him.