Ryan Eiji Derr

With deep sadness, we share that Ryan Eiji Derr left our earth too soon on Sunday, February 1, 2026. Ryan was born on July 28, 1989 in Myrtle Beach, SC. He was 36 years old. 

Ryan, also known to his family and close friends as Ry Guy, Bug, and Big Ryan, found happiness in life’s simple and wonderful pleasures. He loved watching his favorite movies on repeat, visiting Disney World, swimming and playing in the water, jamming to The Beach Boys (particularly Barbara Ann), eating hot dogs and drinking milkshakes, and obsessing over anything related to trains. His hugs were legendary and his smile was unmistakable.

Though words can never fully capture who Ry Guy was or how much he will be missed, his kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Ryan was deeply loved by his family and friends, and we find comfort knowing that he is now an angel looking over us all. 

Ry Guy leaves his devoted parents, Bob and Lori Derr, of Bellville, TX; his siblings, Aimee Heckendorn (Derek) of Houston, TX; Alyssa Layman (Barclay) of Greenville, SC; and Leilani Derr (Justin) of Denver, CO. Big Ryan also leaves his beloved nephews, Peyton, Little Ryan, and Landon.

We will honor Ryan’s life on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 3:30pm at McMillan-Small Funeral Home (910 67th Ave N, Myrtle Beach) with a short memorial service starting at 4:00pm. A reception will follow from 5:00pm until 7:30pm at Drift (980 Cipriana Dr A-6, Myrtle Beach). We welcome everyone that wishes to celebrate Ry Guy!

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to Project Lifesaver through SOS Care (https://soscaresc.networkforgood.com/projects/264601-every-day-giving-2026). Please select “Project Lifesaver” under the “Apply My Donation To” section. Project Lifesaver is a search and rescue program strategically designed for “at risk” individuals who are prone to the life-threatening behavior of wandering. Ryan was the first recipient of a Project Lifesaver bracelet in South Carolina in 2007. Project Lifesaver is a collaborative project between SOS Care, The City of Myrtle Beach, and Horry County Public Safety.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ryan Eiji Derr, please visit our floral store.