Derrick Moore Obituary, MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — Derrick Moore, 47, a Georgia elementary school teacher, football coach, and father of four, has died after entering the ocean to rescue a young girl caught in a rip current near Myrtle Beach on Friday evening, August 7, 2026.
According to the information provided, Moore was near 10th Avenue South when he saw the girl struggling in the water after lifeguards had ended their duties for the evening. He entered the ocean to help her and was able to pull the child away from the dangerous current.
Moments after helping the girl, Moore was pulled underwater by the current. Police and firefighters conducted a search through the night and into the following morning as authorities worked to locate him.
Moore’s body was later recovered after it washed ashore. Myrtle Beach police reportedly said his body was found the following morning, with one account stating that he was recovered nearly a mile from the location where he entered the water.
Information about the rescued girl’s identity and condition has not been released. The circumstances surrounding the rescue and subsequent drowning remain the subject of official reporting, and authorities have not publicly provided additional details about the child.
Moore was remembered as a teacher and football coach from Loganville, Georgia, and as a father of four. The DeKalb County School District described his legacy in terms of his “kindness, dedication and service,” saying that his impact touched countless lives.
For Moore’s family, students, colleagues, and friends, his death represents a profound loss. His final known actions centered on helping a child who was in danger, an act that has drawn attention to the courage he showed during the emergency.
Derrick Moore is being remembered for the life he lived as an educator, coach, father, and member of his community. As his loved ones and those who knew him mourn his passing, condolences go to his four children, family, friends, students, colleagues, and everyone affected by his loss. May his memory be honored through the lives he touched and the child he helped bring to safety.
