Rocci Ray DeRezza, age 66, of Paducah, passed away on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at Ray & Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center.
Rocci was born on February 26, 1957 in Jackson, Michigan to Thomas and Gwendolyn Oliver DeRezza. Rocci retired from the United States Army Reserves as Command Sergeant Major of the 108th Training Command in Charlotte, North Carolina. During his service, Rocci served in Iraq and Afghanistan and was the recipient of several awards. He received a Bronze Star, Legion of Merit award and Order of St. Maurice in the ranks of Centurion 05722 from the National Infantry Association along with several other awards for his dedication and service. Rocci was the President of Teamster Local #236. He had a love for music and making others laugh. He was known for the pranks he would pull on those around him and laughing until he cried. Rocci was a member of Lone Oak Baptist Church.
Rocci is survived by his wife of 31 years, Connie Miller DeRezza; one daughter, Christina DeRezza of Paducah; two sons, Lance DeRezza of Paducah, Jason Lilly (Christina) of Clarksville, Tennessee; one sister, Lisa Walker (Danny) of Paducah; one brother, Todd DeRezza (Kelly) of Kevil; two grandchildren, Taylor Lilly, Emma Lilly, along with several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by one sister, Karmin Roberts and his parents.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 4, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at the Lone Oak Chapel of Milner & Orr Funeral Home with Mary Behrens officiating. Burial will be held at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 4, 2023 at the Lone Oak Chapel of Milner & Orr Funeral Home from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to: Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.
You can send a message to the family and light a candle at www.milnerandorr.com <http://www.milnerandorr.com>.