Derek Martinas Blakeney departed this life on Saturday, June 16, 2018.  He was a 1991 graduate of North Forsyth High School.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jerry David Blakeney.

He leaves to treasure fond memories two sons, Derek Martinas Blakeney, Jr. and Johnathan Blakeney; mother, Valerie Blakeney Cruse; sister, Tachala (David) Hill; grandmother, Eunice Blakeney; two nephews, Joshua Cruse and David Hill, II; niece, Shia Hill; and a host of aunts, cousins, other relatives and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at 2:30pm Saturday, August 11, 2018 at the Russell Funeral Home Chapel.  The family visitation will be held from 2:00pm until 2:30pm on Saturday at the Chapel.