Derek McGlone, fondly known as "China" was born June 18, 1963, in Philadelphia, PA, to the late George H. McGlone, Sr. and Gertrude Brown McGlone. He departed this life January 25, 2024. He was preceded in death by his brother, Tyrone McGlone.

Derek received his early education through the School District of Philadelphia and graduated from Benjamin Franklin High School in 1981. He then joined the U.S. Army and served in a U.S. Army Tank Unit in Germany.

After serving in the military, he returned to Philadelphia and was employed by Fox Electrical Supply. During his work career, he became a plumbing and hardware expert employed by Cintas Facilities Services, S & H Hardware, and for the last 17 years, by the City of Philadelphia Water Department. There was nothing that he did not know how to fix. He was always every family and friends' first call.

Derek grew up as a part of the 8th & Diamond Family Community. He enjoyed all types of sports, especially football, baseball, and basketball. He played first base on the "Pirates" little league team. Derek was also an avid Philadelphia Phillies and a "die hard" Philadelphia Eagles fan.

As a loyal and compassionate friend, and a diligent worker, he had many friends who depended on him. Derek was everyone's main contact for planning social events for family and friends. Also, he was a man who would always tell you how he felt. While he was never disrespectful, he never bit his tongue for anyone.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his daughter, Elise Richardson and granddaughter, Kassiah; two sisters, Trilby Diane Nicholson, and Mary; three brothers, George Jr., Darrell, and Vincent; two sisters-in-law, Sabreana, and Queen; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives, and friends.