Lynn Derby Obituary

Lynn Derby

April 16, 1964 - April 3, 2025

Lynn Marie Derby, 60, Rapid City, S.D., beloved sister, aunt, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2025, following a brief illness. She was surrounded by the love of family and close friends in her final moments, just as she lived her life, wrapped in warmth, laughter, and deep connection.

Lynn was a spirited soul with a deep appreciation for the simple joys of life. Whether fishing for trout, camping under the stars, or playing a competitive game of pool or darts, she embraced every moment with passion and humor. Her love for all things Irish, especially St. Patrick's Day, was unmatched. She never missed a chance to celebrate with green flair and heartfelt cheer.

She found peace on her porch, watching rain clouds drift by and listening to the soulful hum of blues music. Her home was always alive with the energy of her beloved cats, and she delighted in watching the neighborhood turkeys and deer wander by. She loved tending to her garden and took great pride in canning the fruits of her labor, preserving not just food, but care and memories.

Lynn began her professional journey working for the family business, Derby Outdoor Advertising, and later served as Manager of Canyon Lake Resort. In addition, she owned and operated Shooting Star Bar, a local gem that celebrated live music, from blues and jazz to folk. There, she showcased local talent, served up homemade appetizers, including her legendary Jimmy Dean dip, lovingly and accurately nicknamed "crack." Most recently, she worked as Community Manager for Impact Communities, always bringing her trademark can-do spirit, overflowing tool kit, and generous heart to everything she did, thereby earning the trust and praise of those she served.

Her collections were as colorful and unique as she was: miniature moose, angel figurines, festive hats for every occasion, and a key ring that could rival a prison warden's. A true lover of stories, rhythm, and nostalgia, she also had a vast collection of DVDs featuring classic films and iconic music artists.

Lynn always put her friends first. Fiercely loyal and endlessly generous, she would do anything for the people she loved. She was the kind of person who always had your back, no matter what.

Survivors include Rosie Derby, wife of Lynn's father, John Derby; brothers, Mike (Carmen) Derby of Rapid City, S.D., and Dave Derby of Los Angeles, Calif.; nieces, Danielle (Bryent) Blankenship of Blaine, Minn., Alyssa Derby (Lee Thostenson) of Maplewood, Minn., Cameron Derby of Akron, Ohio, Ariel (Jeremy) Gross of Scarsdale, N.Y.; and nephew, Cole (Betsy) Derby of Santa Clara, Calif.; along with nine great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John Derby and Anne Hurley, both of Rapid City, S.D.

Her life will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m., at the Canyon Lake Resort Reunion Lodge. Stories will be shared, laughter will echo, and music will play in her honor, just the way she would have wanted.

If you find yourself under a starlit sky, look up, you just might catch a glimpse of a shooting star. Give it a wave… for it could be Lynn, lighting up the heavens.

Lynn's online guestbook can be signed at www.osheimschmidt.com.

Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home

2700 Jackson Blvd.

Rapid City, SD 57702

605-343-0077