Derek W. Dillard

Derek Wayne Dillard, 64, of Topeka, passed away Tuesday, August 4, 2026.

He was born March 11, 1962, in Topeka, Kansas, the son of William Oliver and Nancy Jo (Gatewood) Dillard, Sr. He was a 1980 graduate of Highland Park High School and received a associate’s degree from Butler County Community College. He later received a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in pre-law and from University of Washington.

Derek was a science and math teacher at Thornton Middle School in Houston, Texas.

He was a member of United Methodist Church in Houston, TX.

Survivors include his mother, Nancy J. Dillard of Topeka; his sister, LaNae Williams of Topeka; his nephew and nieces, Brandon Williams, Brittney Nwabueze-Williams, Tamyra Norwood and Tariq Dillard; his great niece, Amaya Williams and his great-nephew, Tru Nwabueze.

He was preceded in death by his father; and his brother, William Dillard, Jr.

Derek loved spending time with family. He enjoyed traveling, visiting museums, bookstores, and was an active track and field participant in his younger years.

A funeral ceremony is pending at the Dove Cremations & Funerals, Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Ave, Topeka. Cremation will follow the ceremony. Please check back for more information. 

To share a memory of Derek or leave a special message for his family, visit the guestbook below.