- Date Of Birth: August 27, 1948
- Date Of Death: March 10, 2021
- State: Arizona
Derrick was born in Winterhaven, CA (Ft. Yuma, AZ) at the Fort Yuma Indian Hospital to Ralph and Myrtle Rainbow (Townsend- Millard). He was their first child and was later joined by Brother Chester and Brother David.
Derrick received his diploma from San Pasqual High School and then graduated from Haskell College in Lawrence, KS. At a young age he had an interest in politics and admired Robert F. Kennedy. Although he mourned the loss of RFK this only fueled his journey in politics and the committees he supported.
Derrick resided in Northern California his adult life. He was the current Chair of the California-Nevada Committee on Native American Ministries of the United Methodist Church. He was also a member of the Committee of Core and Race Religion and the Committee of Ethnic Ministries. He recently accepted the honor of becoming a member of the Conferences Core Team. He was very humbled and proud to accept this position.
He was blessed with an eye for photography and could often be seen with his camera around his neck. His artistic talent also reflected in his drawing abilities. Derrick was known for his boisterous personality, laugh, intelligence and humorous side.
Derrick will be dearly missed by all that knew him.
He is survived by his best friend and companion Linda Hiter. Son, Derrick Rainbow Jr; niece, Victoria Rainbow-Jackson (Dynta); nephew, Leon Rainbow (Rosemarie); great nephew, Ladarius Jackson; cousin, Robert Rainbow (daughter & 3 sons). He also leaves behind a host of cousins, family and friends to cherish his memory. His extended Townsend, Snow, Emerson, Hill and Millard were always a very special part of his life and he loved them dearly.
He will then be escorted to the Quechan Big House, 1877 Picacho Rd Winterhaven, CA 92283.
