It is with profound sadness that we announce the tragic passing of beloved sister and brother, Ava Olivia Derbecker and Faris Vincent Derbecker, whose lives were cut far too short.
Ava was born on May 2, 2013, and Faris was born on December 14, 2016. Though their years on this earth were few, the impact they made on their family, friends, teammates, teachers, and all who knew them will be felt for a lifetime. Their laughter, kindness, love, and unique gifts brought immeasurable joy to those around them.
They leave behind their loving parents, Michael and Victoria Derbecker; their cherished little brother, Otis Derbecker; and countless family members, friends, coaches, teammates, and loved ones who were blessed to know them.
Ava was the light of our world and of all those around her. She had a way about her far beyond her years, polite, graceful, kind, protective, and maternal. She radiated love and joy and was an infectious shining ray of everything that is good. She loved others and defended people with fierce passion. Her loyalty to others was undeniable, the type of friend who stood behind you even if you were wrong.
Her passion and love for soccer reflected her nature: determined, supportive, and a true companion. Words can never paint the picture of Ava’s soul and her goodness; one cannot simply hear of a masterpiece and know its beauty. Only to see her and to know her was to fully comprehend her grace and purity. There is only one place for a heart and soul like hers to belong, and that is Heaven.
Ava saved our lives when she entered this world, and we are forever indebted to her for the love, memories, and growth she brought us.
Until we see each other again, our little momma.
While Ava brought light and warmth wherever she went, Faris brought wonder, adventure, and joy. He was adventurous, curious, humorous, intelligent, and a devout servant to his family. His love for us was so evident, dedicated to his mother’s happiness, his sister’s approval, his brother’s protection, and his father’s contentment.
A true abundance of knowledge with an endless passion for learning and searching, Faris taught people not just about the world around them, but about themselves. He was a protector of his own heart, only letting those closest to him truly witness his true self and the ways of his soul. We are forever grateful to God that Faris chose us as some of those people.
His kind heart, wit, competitiveness, and willingness for adventure will live on through all who knew him. Faris was an artist and a creator, ready to see the world and eager to experience new things, painting memories in his heart wherever he went. Peace is found in the faith that Faris is in God’s Kingdom, experiencing endless adventures and treasures.
Our love for you, Faris, is endless. Until we meet again, our sweet baby boy.
Together, Ava and Faris shared a special bond as sister and brother. They were teammates in life, united by their love for family, their faith, and the game of soccer. Whether on the field, at home, or alongside friends, they brought energy, encouragement, laughter, and love wherever they went. While their family grieves the unimaginable loss of two beautiful children, they also celebrate the remarkable lives they lived and the countless hearts they touched.
The family will receive friends on Monday, June 22, 2026, from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Martin & Hightower Funeral Home.
A joint funeral service will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 11:00 AM from Tabernacle Baptist Church with Pastor Andrew Hendley and Pastor Ben Webber officiating.
Members of the Georgia Storm Soccer Academy will be seated as honorary pallbearers.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Ava and Faris Fund at the Community Foundation of West Georgia. This fund will honor their love of soccer and what the sport has meant in the lives of the Derbecker family while affording other children in our community the opportunity to play, grow, and bond with teammates, no matter where they come from. Donations may be made online at:
Though their earthly journey ended far too soon, Ava and Faris leave behind a legacy of love, kindness, courage, loyalty, and faith that will continue to shine brightly through all who knew and loved them.
Martin & Hightower Funeral Home is honored to serve the Derbecker family during this difficult time. Messages of condolence may be shared with the family at www.martin-hightower.com.