Derek Vowels

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Derek Jason Vowels, 49, who died Thursday, May 11, 2023.

Derek was born June 1, 1973, to Mr. David (Dickie) and Jonell (Bickett) Vowels of Brandenburg, Kentucky. Derek was a bright and ambitious student who graduated from Meade County High School in 1991. He studied journalism at Western Kentucky University where he developed a passion for writing and storytelling.

After graduation, Derek landed his first job at NPC, where he began a 25-year, very successful career in the credit card industry. He was widely respected and admired by his colleagues for his hard work and dedication.

Derek and David Shaver were married June 11, 2016, and together they shared nearly seven years of devoted, happy married life while raising numerous fur babies. Derek was deeply devoted to his husband and cherished their time together. His kindness, humor, and gently nature will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Derek is survived by his husband, David Shaver; beloved fur babies, including Dickie, Dolly Loretta, and Sammi; oldest brother, David Vowels; brother, David Vowels and David's children, Alexandra Harris, Brianna Duncan, and Boomer Vowels; brother, Douglas Vowels and his children, Sophia Vowels, Piper Vowels, and Harlow Vowels; beloved first cousin, Erica Hamlett; and many other cousins and friends.

Derek was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Jonell Vowels in 1997; and father, David (Dickie) Vowels in 2015.

In his spare time, Derek was a passionate advocate for animal welfare and volunteered with numerous dog rescue organizations over the years. He had a special connection with dogs and loved spending time with them whenever he could. Additionally, Derek was an avid gardener and cook and had a natural talent for cultivating beautiful plants, flowers, and food. He found great joy in tending to his garden and using as many of his fresh vegetables for his home-cooked meals as possible and was happy to share his knowledge and expertise with others.

Derek was a kind, gentle soul who touched the lives of many with his warmth and compassion. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those he loved and those who loved him. May he rest in peace.

Derek's celebration of life will be 11 a.m. Saturday, May 20, 2023, at Hager Funeral Home, 633 Bland Street, Brandenburg, Kentucky, 40108. Visitation will be 2-8 p.m. Friday, May 19, 2023, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Derek's name to The Arrow Fund, PO Box 1127, Prospect, Kentucky, 40059.

Foster Funeral Home & Crematory, Huron, is assisting family.

Online condolences can be made at www.fosterfh.com.

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