Derek Ross Cannady, 41, of Richmond passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Born April 22, 1985, he was the son of Beverly Scott and John William Cannady III. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Grace Elizabeth and John William Cannady, Jr.; maternal grandparents, Anna Elizabeth and David D. Scott; uncle, David Bruce Scott; and beloved four-legged companions, Simon, Sassy, and Jax.

Derek graduated from the Appomattox Regional Governor’s School in 2003. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in graphic information design from George Mason University, later furthering his education and obtaining a Master of Business Administration from Herzing University. His dedication and sharp mind led to a career as a controller at Anord Mardix.

Derek had a great passion for his BMW collection, taking particular pride in his newest X3. A natural tech enthusiast, he enjoyed exploring electronics and computer networking. When he wanted to unplug, Derek could often be found outdoors enjoying yardwork and gardening, or in the kitchen, where he loved cooking and baking.

He loved traveling to new places and had a special passion for flying. Yet, despite all his worldly interests and achievements, nothing mattered more to him than his family. He cherished spending time with his family, especially the days they spent boating together on the James River. Derek would always say that those times on the water were some of the best moments of his life. Being an uncle was one of his greatest sources of happiness. His nieces and nephews absolutely adored him, and they looked up to him as he always made it a special point to get on the floor with them to play and spend as much time with them as he could.

Derek leaves to cherish his memory his parents, Bev Scott and John William Cannady III; two sisters, Amanda Blakely Cannon and husband, Tony and Jordan Cannady Fletcher husband, Corey; beloved nieces and nephews, Kensley Cannon, Briley Fletcher, Corbin Cannon. Colton Fletcher; aunts, Carol Puckett and husband, Randy, Kim Clay and husband, H.L.; cousins, Whitney, Lindsey, Justin; and other extended family members and many cherished friends.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Saturday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Derek’s name to Capital Area Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.), (www.carerva.com/how-to-help). Online condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.