Derek Keith Shook

Derek Keith Shook, 47, of Toney, Alabama, passed away on October 13, 2025. He was born in Jacksonville, North Carolina, to Randle and Deborah Gooch Shook and was the older brother of Daniel Shook, 41.

He is survived by his wife of twenty years, Amanda Jacoby Shook; his children, Lyndee Alyssa Shook, 20; Haidyn Drake Shook, 18 (and his girlfriend Alyssa); their recently adopted great-niece turned daughter, Bella Leigh Mahoney, 16; and their newest joy, grandson Kayden Thomas-Grady Shook, one month old. Derek also leaves behind his four loyal dogs, one feisty cat, and an extended circle of family and friends who will always remember his humor, stubborn streak, and unshakable love.

Derek and Amanda’s story began on AOL back in the 1990s, when the internet was new and love found its way through dial-up tones and instant messages. They met in person around 2003 and never looked back. Their partnership was one of constant banter and laughter—snark and sass, yin and yang, tit and tat. Together, they built a life full of real moments: imperfect, loud, and deeply theirs.

A soldier at heart, Derek loved fast things—cars, bullets, and a good adrenaline rush. He served proudly with the Alabama National Guard, completing three overseas tours and many stateside missions, including hurricane response efforts. His service defined his sense of duty and loyalty, which carried into his work and his family life.

The early years of marriage meant long separations due to deployments and jobs, but over time, the distance gave way to togetherness. For the past five years, Derek worked from home as a government contractor, spending his days surrounded by the people and pets who meant everything to him.

Funeral services will be Friday at 11am at Hazel Green Funeral Home with Pastor Lon Ostrzycki officiating. Burial will follow the service and will be in Huntsville Memory Gardens. The family will begin receiving friends at the funeral home at 9:30.

Derek will be remembered for his unwavering devotion, sharp wit, quiet strength, and a love so steady it will echo through the hearts of everyone who knew him.Hazel Green Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.