Honoring
Derrick Ivan Hodson

Derrick Ivan Hodson, 67, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on March 10, 2026. Derrick was born on September 17, 1958, in Las Vegas to his parents, Raymond LaVor Hodson and Joanne Larkin Hodson. He is survived by his four siblings: Alex Hodson, RaeAnn Peterson, Ruthellen Cook, and Rebecca Olsen. He grew up in Las Vegas and attended Rancho High School, where he formed lifelong friendships and developed the hardworking spirit that would define much of his life.

Derrick was sealed to his eternal companion, Jan Marie Tonks Hodson, on March 28th, 1980, in the St. George Temple. Derrick deeply loved his wife and built with her a life centered on love, loyalty, faith, and family.  Their marriage was marked by steadiness, affection, and true companionship throughout their nearly 46 years together. Those who knew them witnessed the devotion and love he had for her throughout their years together.  They raised five children, Casey Hodson, Chelsea Hodson, Tanner (Amanda) Hodson, Riley (Deidra) Hodson, and Hunter (Jordin) Hodson. He was also “Papa” to nine grandchildren – Milo, Reese, Rudy, Madeline, Emilia, Sutton, Benjamin, Samuel, and Annie – who all absolutely adore him.

Derrick led a life defined by faith, family, hard work, and service. He built and operated Desert Plumbing and Heating, successfully running it for more than 25 years.  He was the embodiment of perseverance and grit – marked by determination, integrity, and an unwavering willingness to do whatever needed to be done.  He was the ultimate problem solver.

He was a man of many strengths and interests: an avid cyclist, hiker, camper, collector, builder, and fixer – always ready to lend his time, knowledge, and energy wherever was needed.  He believed in moving forward, staying useful, and living with purpose, often reminding those around him to “Be a doer.” 

Derrick will also be remembered for his humor and the way he made others feel.  He was generous, naturally positive, and exuded optimism and love.  He had a gift for brightening a room, lifting up those around him, and meeting everyone with warmth, humor, and compassion.

His faith in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was the foundation of who he was. As a young man, he served a mission in Pocatello, Idaho, and later devoted many years to serving as a Bishop.  He especially cherished working with and mentoring the youth.  In later years, he and Jan faithfully served as service mission leaders for the Las Vegas West Service Mission.  Derrick had great faith in Jesus Christ and knew his Savior personally.  That devotion shaped the way he loved, served, believed, and lived each day.

Affectionately known by many as “The Man,” Derrick will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend.  A man of faith, grit, generosity, humor, and enduring positivity.  He leaves behind a legacy woven deeply into the lives of all who knew and loved him.

A visitation will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 10550 Alta Dr, Las Vegas, Nevada 89144, on March 20, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and again on March 21, 2026, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. A funeral service will follow at the same location on March 21, 2026, at 10:00 am.

A committal service will be held at Palm Northwest Cemetery, 6701 North Jones Blvd, Las Vegas, Nevada 89131, on March 21, 2026, at 12:00 pm. Derrick Ivan Hodson’s final resting place is Palm Northwest Cemetery, Garden of Deseret, 6701 North Jones Blvd, Las Vegas.