Derek P. Richardson
Dr. Derek P. Richardson, known lovingly as “Pops,” died peacefully on Saturday, February 21, 2026, surrounded by his children. He was a devoted husband, the eldest of five siblings, a proud father of five, and grandfather of seven. Known for his charm, wit, and humor, he was one of the most spirited people you could ever meet.Born in New York City and raised in Baltimore, he attended St. Paul’s School in New Hampshire and later graduated from Yale. Derek settled in Queensbury, NY in the mid 70’s with his wife, Ellen. He practiced dermatology at Irongate Center, where he cared deeply for his patients and built lasting relationships in the community.
Derek loved the simple things in life—a morning walk, a big pat of butter on corn, rolling double sixes at backgammon, and sharing gin and tonics with friends. He could often be found coaching his children’s little league games, cheering at the TV for his UConn girls, launching model rockets with his grandchildren or patiently putting worms on their fishing hooks.
He truly loved people—his family, friends, and community. He took nothing for granted. To him, life was meant to be celebrated, shared and filled with stories. And he made sure everyone felt included on the journey. There was no holiday he wouldn’t dress up for, whether wearing his signature Christmas vest with 100 blinking lights, dressing as Batman while seeing patients on Halloween, or handing out Thanksgiving turkey hats to all. At any wedding, he would be the one doing the worm. He was vibrant. He was FUN. And in his presence, you couldn’t help but feel at ease and part of something special.
A gifted storyteller and a true wordsmith, Derek was known for his lively notes to his fellow anglers, memorable toasts, and hilarious bedtime stories. When he spoke, people listened—and when others spoke, he listened. He loved hearing about everyone’s lives. An avid fisherman, he explored rivers and ponds around the world with lifelong friends and family.
Derek’s greatest love was his wife, Ellie, whom he met at Albany Medical. They were best friends for over 50 years, sharing a life full of love and adventure—whether enjoying a fire at the home they built, snowshoeing along Halfway Brook, or hiking across the world together.
To his children, he always guided them with a positive attitude, calmness, and support. He was kind and genuine, a man of integrity who found happiness in helping others and left an impression on all who knew him. He will be remembered for his ability to laugh often and how he brought that same spirit out in everyone around him.
He will be deeply missed.
He is survived by his children Rick, Will (Devon), Kate (Bo), Patrick and Anne (Greg); grandchildren Polly, Georgie, Burke, Rosie, Lila, James and Sally; siblings David, Gay, Tony and Kate; predeceased by his wife Ellen and parents Barbara and Derek Richardson.
Friends and relatives are invited to attend a Celebration of Life at Glens Falls Country Club, 211 Round Pound Rd, Queensbury, NY at 2pm on Saturday, May 9th.
Arrangements are under the care of the Singleton Sullivan Potter Funeral Home. Those who wish can make online condolences at our website sbfuneralhome.com