Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Rest in peace Deputy Sheriff Whittle.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

October 9, 2022

Rest in peace and always know that your service and sacrifice will never, ever be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

September 18, 2020

John 5:28, 29 - "Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out". I pray that everyone can find peace in knowing that we will see this officer as well as many others again in Paradise soon. Until then, please accept my condolences.

A.W. Montgomery
Concerned Citizen

September 18, 2018

I just came from meeting with Officer Whittle's parents to acquire some 'In Memory Of' decals for our new rescue truck. It seems that for them, time has not taken much of the pain away. Although I never knew Derrick personally, we worked in the same county, with common goals: to protect people and serve the community. For me, the incident unfolded over my scanner, and still emotionally effects me. God bless all who have been through losing someone in such a manner.

Firefighter/EMT CJ Townsend
Union County Fire / EMS

March 18, 2014

I came across your name and wanted to stop at your page. Know that you will never be forgotten as those that love you will forever carry your precious memories in their broken hearts. Wrap your wings around all of your loved ones and protect them from harm and help them with their grief. You are a true hero and heroes never die.

"When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure." Author Unknown.

Bob Gordon
Father of Fallen Chicago Officer: Michael P. Gordon, EOW: 8/8/04

September 22, 2013

Derrick, not many days go past that I don't talk to someone about you and the laughs we shared. I want you to know that you are still thought of, talked about, laughed about, and missed just like you were when the crash took you from us.

Deputy Sheriff C.J. Worden
Towns County Sheriff's Office

May 3, 2013

Your heroism and service is honored today, the first anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be remembered and revered.


Rest In Peace

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

September 18, 2012

We are upon the one year mark of Derricks death. Last night there was a candle light vigil celebrating Derricks life. His family and many friends gathered to listen to stories of him as a child and up until his death.

Derrick will never be forgotten by anyone who knew him, those who did not have the pleasure of knowing him or being near him need only read a few lines to be able to see what a remarkable person he was and continues to be even after his death. He passed away at 39 y/o but was way beyond his age in wisdom and character. He had a way of looking at things from all points of view and making a quick decision with the knowledge to explain, why.

Union County as a whole lost a family member, friend, and coach on that terrible day last September. There is no way of telling just how many lives he would have touched had he had a full career with UCSO.

God Bless all of our men and women across the U.S. and abroad that gave their lives while protecting us from harm, prayers go out to you all and those left behind.

FF/EMT Ret. Rob Dobbins
St.Petersburg Fire & Rescue

September 16, 2012

On May 10th, Law Enforcement United (comprised of Officers and survivors from all over the US) will begin the Road to Hope, carring the names of fallen Officers from this past year on a 3 day 235 mile memorial bicycle ride to DC. I am saddened, yet honored, to be carrying Dept. Whittle's name.

As I read through the reflection entries, it is obvious that Dept. Whittle was a loved and honorable man. It is inspiring to know that even after such a tragic event, a person of integrity can continue to touch people's lives.

May God keep his hand upon Dept. Whittle, and may He also pour His grace and comfort upon his family as they continue to move forward with the sacrifices that they too have made.

Officer A. Taylor #788
Carrollton, TX PD

April 27, 2012

Rest in Peace, Deputy Whittle. Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

Officer 11169

April 3, 2012

Thank you for your service Sir, RIP.

James Kotke
Civilian / Former Officer
WSF Park Police (Wi.)

February 20, 2012

I come to the ODMP often to remember my late fiance Dennis. Every time I come here it breaks my heart to know that yet another officer has fallen and that yet another family has to live their lives without the officer they loved. My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved Deputy Whittle. Know that you are not alone in the "journey" that you walk. Should you ever need anything please don't hesitate to contact me. (The Davis Co. Sheriff's Office in Iowa will always know how to reach me. I can also be found on Face Book.) You will be in my thoughts.

From reading the reflections left for Derrick he sounds like he was a great man with a beautiful spirit. Those of you who knew him in life were so blessed to have been able to share in it. I hope that you will all continue to find a way to celebrate and remember Derrick's life and the MAN that he was. Remember that Derrick's life was about so much more than the way he died. Derrick will continue to live on as long as we continue to remember him.

Deputy Whittle, thank you for helping to make this world a little safer for us all. YOU will not be forgotten. Please continue to watch over all of us as only you can. If you happen to bump into my late fiance Dennis up there give him a big hug for me and the kids. It's been eight & a half years and he's still very much missed and forever loved.

Wishing you brighter and better days,


Jocelyne :)

Jocelyne Brar (Winnipeg, MB Canada)
Fiancee of Deputy Dennis R. McElderry (EOW: 01/03/03)

December 29, 2011

I attened the Funeral and still to this day pray for the his family and those who this affected..

Deputy Sheriff Michael Garrett
Gilmer County sheriff's Office

December 23, 2011

To the family and friends of Deputy Derrick Whittle, his fellow officers, and most especially to Derrick:

We honor your service to your community as a police officer and to your country as a veteran and you will always be remembered and revered. Rest in Peace.

On behalf of our entire family, I wish to extend our sincerest condolences on the grievous loss you suffered when Derrick died in the line of duty. It is obvious he was well-loved by many and well-respected by his peers as reflected in the loving reflections left for him.

May his loved ones continued to be supported by their law enforcement family and other police survivors. Our family grieves with you and for you. To Derrick's family, you are in my heart's embrace today.

This reflection is sent with the utmost respect for the many years of distinquished service Derricklgave to his community and the citizens of Georgia, and the supreme sacrifice he and his family made on September 18, 2011.

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

December 19, 2011

I am proud to say that Derrick was my first cousin. I was blessed with being a part of his life through the years. He will be missed. He was a kind, caring and fun person to be around. I will miss his smile and laugh most of all. Thank you D for your service. God speed for his family. We love you cuz.

Toni Tidwell
Cousin

December 4, 2011

I am proud to say that Derrick was my first cousin. I was blessed with being a part of his life through the years. He will be missed. He was a kind, caring and fun person to be around. I will miss his smile and laugh most of all. Thank you D for your service. God speed for his family. We love you cuz.

Toni Tidwell
Cousin

December 4, 2011

I never met you Derrick but I have the pleasure of knowing your Mom and Dad. They truly loved you
and were so proud of your accomplishments. As parents of a fallen officer we know the pain that your Mom and Dad have in there heart and the love for your family that
you were so proud of.
We want to be of comfort and share each others wonderful memories of our sons. Something to share is the happy moments that we look back on this and everyday. Stay strong Sharon and Jim and may the Lord God Bless you both.
Joel & Ellie

Joel Peney (Retired Fort Lauderdale Poli
Fort Lauderdale Police Dept

December 3, 2011

Still think about you all the time buddy. You are still missed.

Investigator C.J. Worden
Union County Sheriff's Office

November 16, 2011

The National Police Wives Association would like to extend their heartfelt prayers to the family of Deputy Sheriff Derrick Whittle and the Union County Sheriff's Office during this time. Thank you, Officer Whittle, for your service.

Staff
National Police Wives Association

November 2, 2011

Deputy Sheriff Whittle,
Sir, I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Union County. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
USBP

October 30, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and co-workers of this brave officer. Rest in Peace.

Sheriff Ray Foster
Buchanan County Sheriff's Office

October 17, 2011

His Judgment Day:
The officer stood and faced his God, Which must always come to pass. He hoped his shoes were shinning, Just as brightly as his brass.
"Step forward now, Officer, How shall I deal with you? Have you always turned the other cheek To my church have you been true?"
The officer squared his shoulder and said, "No, Lord, I guess I aint, Because those of us who carry badges can't always be a saint.
I've had to work most Sundays, And at times my talk was rough, And sometimes I've been violent Because the streets are tough.
But I never took a penny That wasn't mine to keep.. Though I worked a lot of overtime, when the bills got too steep.
And I never passed a cry for help Though at times I shook with fear. And sometimes, God forgive me, I've wept an unmanly tear.
I know I don't deserve a place among the people here. They never wanted me around except to calm their fear.
If you've a place for me here, Lord, it needn't be so grand. I never expected or had too much, But if you don't...I'll understand.
There was silence all around the throne, where the saints often trod. As the officer waited quietly for the judgment of his God.
"Step forward now, Officer. You've borne your burdens well. Come walk a beat on heaven's streets, You've done your time in hell"

Author unknown

May God be with everyone

Motor Officer Terry Pauley
Plano PD Plano, TX

October 7, 2011

May the lord our GOD BLESS , COMFORT & PROTECT HIS FAMILY & COLLEGUES IN JESUS NAME

Sis Schala McKenney
True Witness Apostolic Church, Pompano bch FL

September 30, 2011

To the family,

In your time of need let your extended family of Law Enforcement Officer comfort you and be there for you. There is nothing more comforting than having such wonderful support from so many brothers and sister. That support will be there for you for years to come. Know that you are not alone and we that have been there pray for peace and comfort. The Thin Blue line will never be broken and you will forever be part of a big family that will never let you down.


Donna Beane

Donna Beane
Widow of a Police Officer

September 29, 2011

Our entire Unit sends our prayers to the family of Brother Derrick, and to the UCSO. Your dedication to duty and service to this Country will always be honored. RIP brother Derrick.

Commander Griffin / MPS DOPS
OIG Special Ops / Airport Security Div

September 28, 2011