Derrick Emmanuel DaRocha Hathaway, Phoenix, AZ — Derrick Emmanuel DaRocha Hathaway, a former U.S. Marine and homeless veteran, tragically passed away on November 11, 2024, due to a drug overdose. His death has left his family and community mourning while highlighting the struggles faced by veterans dealing with trauma and societal neglect.
Derrick served nearly a decade in the Marine Corps, earning accolades for his service during peacekeeping efforts in Kosovo. However, his life took a challenging turn following an incident on a cargo ship during deployment. The psychological impact of this mission led him to develop severe PTSD, which he battled for years without adequate support. A single incident involving substance use resulted in a bad conduct discharge, which denied him access to critical services, including veteran burial honors.
For over a decade, Derrick lived on the streets, embodying the plight of countless homeless veterans. His sister, Stephanie Alves-Amaral, described him as a proud man who endured immense hardship while being failed by the very systems meant to support him. Despite these adversities, Derrick’s dedication to his country remains undeniable.
Stephanie has initiated a fundraiser with a goal of $10,000 to cover Derrick’s burial and funeral expenses. The government has denied financial support due to his discharge status, leaving the family to rely solely on community generosity. As of now, no donations have been made, but Stephanie continues to advocate for her brother’s dignified farewell, hoping to give him the burial she believes he earned through his sacrifices.
The story of Derrick Emmanuel DaRocha Hathaway underscores the urgency of addressing systemic failures in supporting veterans, particularly those dealing with mental health challenges and homelessness.
We extend our heartfelt prayers to Derrick’s family and friends during this time of grief. May he find the peace in death that eluded him in life.
Summary of Derrick Emmanuel DaRocha Hathaway
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Derrick Emmanuel DaRocha Hathaway |
| Date of Passing | November 11, 2024 |
| Fundraiser Created By | Stephanie Alves-Amaral |
| Goal Amount | $10,000 |
| Amount Raised | None yet |
| Location | Phoenix, AZ |
| Purpose | Funeral expenses and burial costs |
Note:This post was written and edited by Samuel Wilson, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.