Dera Roberts

It’s in moments of great sadness that we’re compelled to remember how grateful we are to have someone as beautiful as our friend Dera Roberts to laugh, love, and live life with. We are heartbroken yet compelled to make Dera’s memory shine on forever.

We are Dana Cordasco and Aliona Mikhed, friends and former co-workers of Dera’s.

Dera passed in her sleep Friday, February 24th from a blood clot in her lungs after a recent struggle with pneumonia. Dera struggled for many years with a blood disorder that caused similar clots in her lungs and legs, and the combination of pneumonia lead to her sudden passing.

For us, Dera was an incredible friend, a dedicated coworker, and an irreplaceable person. Dera’s smile was unlike anything you’ve ever seen, and it was always present. She gave the best hugs, had infectious energy, and always made you feel like every time she saw you it was the highlight of her day. If you mentioned Dera’s name to someone in our industry, they would always remark about how great it was to work with her and how sweet of a person she was. At our industry trade shows she was always sporting a big smile and her hoops – ready to take on the day.

The greatest part about Dera was how much she loved her son, Saamir. She would always share with us how proud she was of him, his academics, and his growing list of talents. Saamir will continue to be the light that keeps the memory of Dera alive.

It’s at this point that Aliona and I, (in addition to all of you who are landing on this page) are wanting to contribute, do something impactful, and make a difference in supporting Saamir and Dera’s extended family during this tragic time.

In addition to funeral expenses, the money raised will help Saamir and Dera’s family through this challenging time, providing them with a future Dera worked so hard toward. As Saamir’s 14th birthday approaches next month, we hope that the money raised will help the family honor the life and memory of their beloved mother, daughter, sister, and friend.

On behalf of Dera's family, any contribution, big or small, will have a lasting impact - it is greatly appreciated, and we couldn't be more thankful.

Services for Dera will be held Thursday, March 2nd at First Baptist Church of Deer Park - 191 Washington Avenue Deer Park NY 11729. 10 AM - 11 AM Viewing, 11 AM - 12 PM Service.