Mr. Derrick Lamar Morgan

Derrick Lamar Morgan, age 46, was born on June 4, 1979, in Albany, New York, and called home on February 27, 2026. He spent much of his life living in many boroughs throughout New York. Also resided in Hartford Connecticut and Durham North Carolina, before relocating to Lawrenceville, Georgia, where he continued to grow personally and professionally, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. Derrick discovered his love for cooking at a young age and pursued his passion with unwavering commitment, beginning his culinary journey in his teens. During his studies at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York, he completed internships serving the cast of Sesame Street and The Cosby Show. He built a remarkable 30-year career as an executive chef, working in numerous kitchens throughout the years. His professional journey included serving at ABC News in New York; Yeshiva University in New York; and Courtyard by Marriott in Duluth, Georgia. Each kitchen he entered was shaped by his creativity, leadership, and rare ability to elevate simple ingredients into memorable experiences. Above all, Derrick treasured his role as a father to his 13-year-old daughter, Kristen, who was the light of his life. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and worked to allow the Lord to guide him through life’s struggles. Derrick’s warmth, laughter, and love for family, food, and community will be remembered by all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his father, Herman Arrington and his grandmother Amanda Morgan. He is survived by his loving mother, Rosette Noyan (Thomas), his cherished daughter, Kristen, (Queens New York), his brothers, Arthur and David (Lawrenceville Georgia), his sister, Andrea (Edwin) (Queens New York), and his devoted fiancée, Shavora Mona Williams (Lawrenceville Georgia), extended siblings; Little Luke, Daisy, James, Cassandra, and Kenneth (Albany, New York); and Erstella (Charlotte North Carolina), and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever hold him in their hearts. Our beloved Derrick has entered eternal rest and is now in the presence of the Lord. His love and legacy will live on in our hearts until we meet again. Mr. Derrick Lamar Morgan, 46, of Lawrenceville, GA passed on Friday, February 27, 2026. Celebration of Life Services will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 3:00 PM at New Jerusalem Baptist Church, 422 E. Crogan St., Lawrenceville, GA 30046. Services entrusted to Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home, Gwinnett Chapel, 914 Scenic Hwy Lawrenceville, GA 30045. 770-338-5558.

Tributes

Mr. Derrick Lamar Morgan

June 4, 1979 - February 27, 2026