Violet Vanetta (Rudy) Derr

Violet Vanetta (Rudy) Derr, age 89, of Newport News, Virginia, and formerly of Mechanicsburg, passed away at the home her daughter, Marjorie, on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. Violet was born on Wednesday, June 2, 1937, in Newport, Pennsylvania to the late Howard Leroy Rudy and Violet May (Rudy) Rudy. Violet was the widow of Dale Carl Derr, Sr., whom she married on July 13, 1953, and who died on September 27, 2008. In addition to her parents and husband, Violet is preceded in death by her granddaughter, Michele Mixell; and her nine siblings: Paul Rudy, Clara Evelhoch, Howard Rudy, Lois Campbell, Helen Murtoff, Stanley Rudy, Beverly Talada, Linda Price, and Patsy Mixell.

Violet’s survivors include her seven children: Barbara A. Bobb and husband, Michael, of Shiremanstown; Dale C. Derr, Jr. and wife, Phyllis, of Lewisberry; Howard L. Derr and wife, Pat, of Franklintown; Robert L. Derr of Carlisle; Marjorie L. Heiges of Newport News, Virginia; Richard J. Derr of Mechanicsburg; Melvin R. Derr of Dillsburg; her many beloved grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Violet dedicated her life to her family, thriving as a homemaker and nurturing her loved ones with strength and compassion. She also worked in the mailroom at Blue Cross Insurance, where she forged lasting friendships. Her passion for creativity was expressed through her love of gardening, crafting, crocheting, and knitting. Violet found joy in both the beauty of flowers and the bounty of her vegetable garden, sharing her harvests with family and friends.

An adventurer at heart, she enjoyed camping, traveling, and snowmobiling alongside her beloved husband, Dale. Violet had a unique talent for collecting rocks and panning for gemstones, finding beauty in the simple treasures of nature. Her spirit of exploration was matched only by the warmth she exuded toward those around her.

All are welcome to join Violet’s family at her viewing on Monday, July 27, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service beginning at 11:30 a.m. all at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - Camp Hill Ward, 216 Skyline Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050. Violet’s family invites everyone to join them for a time of food and fellowship at her Church immediately following the service. Burial will follow the reception in Newville Cemetery.

Violet’s family has entrusted her care to Buhrig Funeral & Cremation in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421. Read Violet’s full obituary, view her memorial video and photograph, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle, and sign her official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.