Humble Beginnings
The Derrick L. Horsley Story
Based on a True Story
Inside From Humble Beginnings: The Story of Derrick L. Horsley, you’ll discover a powerful journey of grit, sacrifice, and redemption.
Born and raised in a small town in the Mississippi Delta, Derrick Horsley grew up knowing the weight of poverty and the strength it takes to dream beyond it. From being a Boy Scout to facing the challenges of adolescence, Derrick’s early life was filled with both promise and hardship.
After enlisting in the Army straight out of high school, Derrick’s world was shaken when he was forced to choose between defending his reputation against misconduct allegations or standing by his wife as she fought cancer. Choosing love and loyalty over career, Derrick returned home — only to face new battles of his own.
Through chapters like My Own War, Second Chances, and Saving Grace, readers will follow Derrick’s hard-won return to military service with the National Guard, his pursuit of education, and his growing commitment to building a lasting legacy. Today, Derrick works with veterans and leads a nonprofit for young men, helping others find their way through adversity.
From Humble Beginnings is a story of resilience, faith, and the enduring power of doing what’s right — even when the cost is high.
About Derrick L. Horsley
Derrick Horsley was born in Rosedale, Mississippi—one of the most economically challenged cities in Bolivar County, located in the poorest state in the United States. Despite growing up in such conditions, he remained determined to rise above his circumstances and build a life of service, leadership, and impact.
After graduating from high school, Derrick enlisted in the United States Army. Over the course of a distinguished 25+ year career on active duty, he rose through the ranks to retire as an Army Officer. He deployed multiple times in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation New Dawn, directly supporting U.S. Warfighters in critical theaters of conflict.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of Derrick’s military service was his work in education and training. He served as an Instructor, Senior Instructor, Writer/Developer, and Course Director, specializing in Human Resources Specialist training. In this role, he successfully trained and mentored over 1,000 Soldiers, maintaining an exceptional 1% attrition rate.
Derrick’s dedication to education extended beyond the military. He served as an Adjunct Professor at both Central Texas College and West Georgia Technical College, where he taught courses in Business, Human Resources Management, and Leadership.
He holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership and a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management. He is currently pursuing a Doctoral degree in Strategic Leadership.
Derrick is a Certified Member of the John Maxwell Leadership Team. His extensive credentials also include serving as a former Acting Inspector General, Master Project Manager, Master Fitness Instructor, and Quality Assurance Officer. Among his many accomplishments, he successfully completed the highly rigorous United States Army Sergeants Major Academy - Battle Staff Course, one of the most challenging programs in the Army.
Derrick is married to Jessica Kidd, they have two children—Nicholas and Natasha—and three beloved grandchildren: Tyarie Echols, Kia Brown, and Tavoris Brown Jr.
Derrick is a life member of one of the most distinguished and prestigious organization in the World, The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
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What People are Saying
Tyrone Jackson, Ed.D.
"It is indeed an honor to pen the foreword for this book, not only because it’s for a dear friend but because it comes from someone who has always embodied the heart of our small community of Rosedale, Mississippi, affectionately known as “the Delta City of Brotherly Love.”
Michael Thompson
"The Journey of Redemption is a compelling testament to Derrick Horsley's ability to weave impactful stories. The emotional depth and unexpected turns make it a truly gripping read. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a story that leaves a lasting impression."
Emily Davis
"Derrick Horsley's storytelling is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. His narratives, like Unbroken Spirit and The Journey of Redemption, take readers on a profound journey filled with hope, courage, and the enduring power of the human soul. An author who leaves an indelible mark!"
Connect with Derrick
Contact Information
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