Derrick Ollison, retired Ironwood warden

Derrick Ollison, a military veteran and retired warden, passed away Nov. 25, 2024. He worked for the department for 29 years, retiring in 2008 from Ironwood State Prison. Ollison was 67 years old.

After graduating high school, Ollison joined the U.S. Air Force, serving in law enforcement. When he got out of the miliary after four years, he joined the department as a correctional officer.

He promoted through the ranks to sergeant, lieutenant, correctional counselor II, associate warden, chief deputy warden and warden.

“He was an avid Raiders fan (and) played football in high school, the Air Force and the Department of Corrections,” according to his family. “Derrick loved to travel, especially on cruises. Some of his favorite cruises were the Panama Canal, the Mediterranean, the cruise from Australia to Hawaii, and the cruise from Rome to Dubai.”

Ollison is survived by his wife of 48 years, Imogene, their son Leon, daughter Regina, two brothers, one sister, and five granddaughters.

Services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Dec. 20, at Jay Chapel, 1121 Roberts Ave., Madera.

Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.

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