Derric Christopher Burden

Derric Christopher Burden, 38, passed away on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Penn State St. Joe's Hospital.

Born in Reading, Derric was the son of Latricia Burden Burgess-Spears and Pedro Williams. He graduated from Reading High School and went on to earn his nursing diploma from Lancaster County Career & Technology Center and an Associates degree from Reading Area Community College. Derric dedicated his career to caring for others as a Licensed Practical Nurse in the healthcare field.

Derric was a beloved son, brother, uncle, godson, and friend who never let his presence go unnoticed. He brought laughter and love to the lives of those around him. He was known for his bold personality, unforgettable sense of humor, and ability to make people laugh. Derric had a way of making an impression wherever he went, and those who knew him will always remember the energy, confidence, and individuality he brought into every room.

Derric was incredibly smart and witty, with a genuine love for learning. He was naturally curious and always had a way of showing just how intelligent he was. His dedication to his education and academic achievements earned him membership to the Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Society. Derric carried that intelligence and determination with him throughout his life and into his career.

Derric had a way of enjoying life through the things he loved most. One of those things was music. From Mariah Carey to Beyoncé, Derric would go note for note, whether he knew the lyrics or not! He loved having "lyric" battles with his sisters, turning their love of music into playful competitions filled with laughter. He was a proud member of Beyoncé's BeyHive and had no problem letting everyone know it. And if there was one thing Derric loved just as much as Beyoncé, it was shopping. He took his appearance seriously and made sure everyone knew he could put an outfit together. Fashion was another way Derric expressed his personality, and he loved looking his best no matter how bright the outfit.

Above all else, Derric loved his family. He had a special place in his heart for his niece, nephews, godson, and cousins. Derric loved being around them, making memories, sharing laughs, and simply being a part of their lives. He treasured watching them grow and loved each of them in his own special way. His love for his family was genuine and undeniable, and the memories they shared with him will be cherished forever.

Derric was preceded in death by his uncle, Jeffery Peggues.

Those left to remember and honor Derric include his parents, Pedro Williams and Latricia Burden Burgess-Spears; his stepfather, Christopher Burgess- Spears; Thomas Peggues Jr.; his sisters: Tomishia Johnson, Chaleece Peggues, and Nelly Ludy; his brother-in-laws, Jarred Johnson and Harley Ludy; his niece, Ava Johnson; his nephews: Jasiah Johnson, Joshua Johnson, and Cortland Ludy; his godson, Cadyn Corcoran-Key; and his significant other, Marisa Tademy.

He will also be remembered by his grandparents, Winnie Burden, Wilfred Burden, and Pedro Claudio; his great-aunt, Toni Brooks; his godmother, Yvonne Hall; his uncles: Marc Burden, Dennis Williams, Andre Williams, and Ronald Peggues; his aunt, Marci MacIntosh; and a host of family members, friends, colleagues, and loved ones.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday August 21st, at 6:00 p.m. at Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, 739 Penn Ave. West Reading, PA 19611. The family will receive friends and relatives from 5:00 pm until the start of the service.

Derric will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc. - West Reading is honored to serve Derric's family. Condolences may be recorded at kuhnfuneralhomes.com