Derrick Brockington

Derrick Marquis Brockington, affectionately known as “HardHead”, “Quisee”, “Dee” or “Banner” was born on November 23, 1977, in New Haven, Connecticut, to Angela T Brockington and Derrick McCleary. Derrick’s legacy is deeply rooted in family. Derrick was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. He leaves behind his loving wife, Mrs. Shaquira (Shaq) Brockington; his four children, Truth Brockington, Ayden, Anikye Everett, and Aliza Danso. His mother, Angela T Brockington, and father, Derrick McCleary. His siblings are Kyisha Brockington, James and Tia Brockington, Valamae Jenkins, Sheena and Kenyatta Johnson, Chanel and Deidra McCleary. Grandparents Rachel Allen, Naomi Williams, Elizabeth McCleary. 6 nieces and 4 nephews, and many beloved family, friends, and people he holds dear. Derrick attended New Haven Public Schools, where he ended schooling at Hillhouse High School School, where he quickly stood out. Known for his sharp style, clean grooming, bright smile, and natural sense of humor, he carried himself with a mix of confidence, respect, and charisma—qualities that followed him throughout his life. To know Hardhead was to love him; he was loved by so many, and he had a gentle and kind soul with a charismatic personality. He either liked you or couldn’t stand you, but tolerated everyone. His smile and laughter were contagious. Growing up, Derrick’s siblings would all agree—he was definitely the mischievous one of the bunch. One memorable moment from Derrick’s childhood was Christmas Eve of 1982, when his grandad gifted him his first orange quad at just five years old—a present that sparked a love and passion which would later grow into one of his lifelong hobbies. Derrick loved anything on wheels. He fixed and drove race cars, he drove, fixed, and detailed all types of vehicles from coops to tractor trailers. Of course, his favorite was 2 wheels. He lived to catch some wind or turn a few corners if it was in town. HardHead started with Core Ryders. Then he later started his first MC club, he would say, and introduced him to what he calls “Wheeling.” In 2011, HardHead became a member of Wheels of Soul. He loved the nation and all it had to offer. Hard Head may have visited almost every clubhouse in the U.S. He lived for and enjoyed the brotherhood. Hardhead was his brother's keeper; that’s why he was happy to be the sergeant-at-arms in whatever chapter he was under. HardHead was a big bro, a protector! Wheel in Peace, HardHead. “Determine to Succeed” was Derrick Brockington’s guiding philosophy in life. He firmly believed that no matter the hand you were dealt, your future could be shaped through faith, perseverance, and hard work. Derrick’s journey was not only a reflection of these values but also an inspiration to everyone who knew him. His life stood as a testament that with determination and faith, success is always within reach. In 2010, he had his beautiful daughter Truth with childhood friend Jamila. In 2017, he met Shaquira and blended their families. October 25, 2020, Derrick gave his life to Christ at Upon This Rock “ Now Faith Ministries. This became their church home and where the two became one on November 22nd, 2022, Derrick was united in marriage to the love of his life, Shaquira. Their marriage exemplified a true partnership, grounded in love, faith, and mutual respect. Together, they nurtured a strong and devoted family, serving as a testament to the endurance of lasting love. Their union was characterized by steadfast support for one another’s aspirations, shared values, a love of travel, and a deep commitment to raising their children in an environment rooted in faith, integrity, and purpose. His life’s goal was to create opportunities and build a lasting legacy for both his family and his community, guided by a deep conviction to make more of himself. With these values in mind, he started Truth Roadside Pros, HardHead Entertainment, and Triple A awareness. Derrick was a very ambitious man. Goal-oriented, which I like to say he picked up from Pete. Success or failure, he always tried again. Both in his hometown and across the country, his name is recognized and respected. He will be remembered as a man of great influence, steadfast integrity, and distinguished leadership. He was preceded in death by his siblings, stepfather Peter Jenkins, and grandfather James Williams. Samuel Allen, Rembert McCleary, Louise McCleary, aunts and uncles, and the many loved ones whose lives were forever connected to his. The void left by his passing is immeasurable, yet the legacy he leaves behind is enduring and profound. Derrick Brockington was a man of exceptional character—intelligent, strong, loving, reliable, and determined. In conversation, he could make you laugh, help you think, and challenge you to grow, often all at once. His presence will be deeply missed, but his example will continue to guide those who knew and loved him. He showed us what it means to walk with purpose, to love with depth, and to serve in our purpose.

Derrick Brockington

November 23, 1977 - August 28, 2025