Derek J. Hanley
Wilmington Native
TEWKSBURY: Derek J. Hanley, age 31, a well-known native of Wilmington, passed away at home on Wednesday, December 14, 2016, following a lengthy battle with drug addiction.
He was the beloved companion of Marguerite E. Bright and devoted father of Jenna E. Hanley, both of Lowell.
Born in Winchester on May 28, 1985, he was the much loved son of David W. Hanley of Tewksbury and Patricia-Jo (Cooper) Hanley of Lowell.
Derek was raised in Wilmington, attended Wilmington schools and graduated from Wilmington High School in 2003. Following graduation, he attended Springfield College.
During his high school years, Derek was a Captain and an All-Scholastic Football player for the Wilmington Wildcats. In addition, he was a two time Massachusetts State Wrestling Champion and an All-State Wrestling Champion in his weight class.
Derek enjoyed coaching the Wilmington Pop Warner Football and the Wilmington Youth Wrestling Programs.
Derek was employed as a supervisor by the Big Top Party Rental Company in Tewksbury.
In addition to his daughter, girlfriend, and parents, he is survived by his sister Alyssa R. Hanley; his brother, David P. Hanley and his wife Jessica; his niece and nephew, Arianna M. and Devin R. Hanley; his maternal grandmother, Mary Ellen Cooper all of Tewksbury; also many aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family members.
Derek’s family meant the world to him. He was a very loving son and devoted brother, words cannot express the close bond that they shared. He found great joy in being an uncle to Arianna and Devin who fondly referred to him as “Uncle D”. His younger cousins looked up to him, he was their biggest fan at games, meets, and recitals. He also enjoyed fishing, playing cards, golf, and was a big fan of all Boston sports teams.
Derek will be remembered for his comical sense of humor and practical jokes, as well as his athletic talents. He had a kind heart and was never too busy to help anyone. Even during his own recovery journey, he was a support to others. However, by far, what Derek cherished the most were his partner Meg and his precious daughter Jenna. They were the light of his life, and he was an amazing Daddy. His family will be forever blessed by their presence.
Derek was the paternal grandson of the late Jean A. and Paul F. Hanley, and maternal grandson of the late James B. Cooper.
Calling hours are Tuesday, Dec. 20, from 4-8 p.m. at the Farmer & Dee Funeral Home, 16 Lee St., Tewksbury. His funeral will be held Wednesday, Dec. 21, at 8:45 a.m. from the funeral home, followed by his Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. at St. Thomas of Villanova Church, 126 Middlesex Ave., Wilmington. Interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery, 90 River Rd., Tewksbury. In lieu of flowers, donations in Derek’s memory may be made to the Jenna E. Hanley Fund and mailed to 75 Belle Avenue, Lowell, MA 01851.