Derrick W. Diggs

Derrick W. Diggs, 67, passed away peacefully, on Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at ProMedica Toledo Hospital surrounded by family members and friends. Derrick was born on May 25, 1955, to Martha Thompson. He graduated from DeVilbiss High School in 1973, where he was a star quarterback for the football team. He was an inductee of the DeVilbiss High School Hall of Fame in 2013. He also played football at Adrian College where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology and Political Science. He also earned a Master's Degree in Public Administration from the University of Toledo. As a child, in elementary school, Derrick was influenced to become a police officer after a visit to his school by a Toledo Police Sergeant. He accomplished his childhood dream when he became a member of the Toledo Police Department in 1977. He worked in various sections and units on the Department from street patrol to Investigative Services to Community Services. He was promoted to sergeant in 1986; lieutenant in 1990; captain in 1995; and deputy chief in 2001. He was appointed to Chief of Police in 2011, the first African American to attain that position. He served over 46 years in law enforcement, the last few as chief in the City of Fort Myers, Florida. He was a Chief made for the 21st century. He embraced the use of technology to improve police service. He was nationally known for his use of intelligence-led policing which tracked crime patterns and led to reduced crime. He also understood the importance of working closely with community members and partners and worked hard on community engagement programs in Toledo and Fort Myers. He was committed to officers who worked for him and mentored a generation of future leaders on both Departments. However, not too many people got to witness his other side, the family side. He was a constant source of strength and support to his son, Derrick. Sending texts to constantly remind him to watch his 6, make sure he got the job done, to lead from the front, and take care of his officers. He formed a special bond with Lisa that started off with her being scared and intimidated by him to being best friends and Lisa being his person of comfort when he was at his worst. The birth of his grandson, Derrick (AKA Diggy), brought out his softer side. They had a very special bond. Only his grandfather could get a six-year-old to wear Dior cologne and Polo brand clothes and then come up with a phrase for Diggy "you can't put a price tag on being full-time pretty". The special time shared with him and Diggy just walking to the mailbox in Florida. The special smiles that appeared on his face when his grandsons told him about their team games and practices. His love for pizza parties with the family. And his newfound use of emojis when sending texts of support and love. He leaves to cherish his memory son, Derrick D. Diggs (Lisa); sister, Shirley Tucker; grandsons, Ashton Mitchell, Mason Mitchell, and Derrick Michael Diggs and a host of relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents. Derrick will be remembered as a loving and supportive father and grandfather. He will also be remembered as a passionate but kindhearted police officer, public servant, and leader who was committed to serving his community and serving those in need.

Derrick W. Diggs

May 25, 1955 - February 15, 2023