Dr. Ed Deregibus
William Edward “Ed” Deregibus passed away from this world after a long illness on Feb. 4, surrounded by his family. He was 74 years old. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Frances Deregibus and his in-laws, Sam and Flo Lanford.
He is survived by his sister, Dana Deemer and her husband, Mark; his children, Shenandoah Nieuwsma, Isaac Deregibus, Hannah Benson and their spouses; eight grandchildren; his wife of 45 years, Missy Deregibus; several in laws and cousins, and many friends and former patients.
He was born on June 2, 1950 and grew up in Colorado City, Texas. He was musical and artistic as a teenager, and played drums in the marching band and in a garage band called the Sights and Sounds. He continued to love a wide range of music as he grew older, what would now be called global music. As a young man, he ended up getting first his Massage Therapy degree in New Mexico, and then his Chiropractic degree from Davenport College, and then moved to Italy where he practiced for almost 2 years.
While abroad, he met some missionary friends, began to study the Bible seriously and then became a Christian in 1978 and was baptized in Lake Lausanne, Switzerland. He loved and was inspired by the teachings of Jesus, and tried to follow the path. He moved back to the states where he met and married Missy Lanford, moved to Virginia, started practicing Chiropractic and had three children. They lived in Farmville for most of 38 years, taking time off to do medical mission work in Guatemala and Brazil. They were active members of Faith Bible Fellowship for many years.
He loved his family and his patients. He loved Farmville and felt lucky to live in such a beautiful town. In retirement, he did volunteer work at Southside Hospital and Meals on Wheels. After moving to Richmond, he completely enjoyed living at the Hermitage with many friends, wonderful staff, church on site, fun activities and great walking areas.
He will be greatly missed. He is free at last. “Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead and Christ will shine on you.”
Visitation will be at the Deregibus’ old home, now the home of Drs. Sarai and Adam Blincoe, 709 High Street, Farmville, on Friday, Feb. 28, 5 – 7 p.m. Memorial Service will be at Faith Bible Fellowship, 207 N. Bridge Street, Farmville, on Saturday, March 1, 10:30 a.m.