Obituary of Derek "Dee" Alfonzo LeGrand

LeGrand, Derek “Dee”
Derek “Dee” LeGrand, 46, of Norwalk, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 11, 2018 at Norwalk Hospital with his loving wife Doreen and family by his side.
Dee was born in Stamford, CT on May 19, 1971 to Cheryl Griffin LeGrand of Charlotte, NC and Richard LeGrand of Portsmouth, VA. He attended Stamford public schools and graduated from Rippowam High School in 1989. As an extremely talented graphic designer, he worked in the sign industry for over 25 years and his projects are on display throughout Fairfield County.
On a personal level, it can be said with confidence that everyone wishes they had a friend like Dee. This man, with his infectious smile and natural charisma, could coax even the most reserved person out of their shell. His warm personality made everyone feel comfortable. His kindness was always on display, demonstrated by his willingness to go out of his own way to help others. He was a conversationalist who exhibited an authentic interest in getting to know people. A legendary story teller with a seemingly unlimited catalog of experiences at his disposal, Dee was the “Most Interesting Man in the World”. For those with the privilege to be part of his life, hold dearly your experience with the self-proclaimed “Brother Dee” because there will never be another like him.
In addition to his parents, Dee leaves to mourn, his wife of 15 years, Doreen Hall LeGrand; his stepson Chris and Stacey Hall of Norwalk, CT; his two beautiful granddaughters, Torri and Taylor Hall of Norwalk, CT; his nephew Kane LeGrand and his newly born grandniece Asé Assata LeGrand-El of Charlotte, NC; his uncles Clarence Griffin, Jr. (Patricia) of
Moore OK; Keith Griffin (Anita) of Stamford, CT; Kevin Griffin (Sharri) of Charlotte, NC; and Kim Griffin of Stamford, CT; his aunts Shirley Kirby Ruffin (Nat) of Stamford, CT; Pamela Griffin Jordan of Bridgeport, CT; Paula Griffin Carter of Raleigh, NC; and Joyce Griffin of Stamford, CT and a host of loving family members and friends.
Dee was predeceased by his brother Richard “Che” LeGrand II; his maternal grandparents Marion and Clarence Griffin; his paternal grandparents Rose and Albert Kirby and his uncle Albert Kirby, Jr.
A memorial will be held on Sunday, February 25, 2018 at the VFW, 205 Noroton Avenue, Darien, CT from 12:00 to 4:00 pm with a service at 1:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in honor of Dee to Pivot Ministries, Inc., 485 Jane Street, Bridgeport, Ct.