Sharron Lovejoy Derrough

OBITUARY

Sharron Lovejoy Derrough, a trailblazing journalist whose sharp wit and vibrant spirit graced television screens and newsrooms for decades, signed off for the final time on Wednesday, March 4th, 2026. She was 82.

Born with a natural curiosity and a voice made for the airwaves, Sharron built a distinguished career in broadcast journalism. She broke barriers as one of the first female CBS News correspondents, reporting from major bureaus in Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago. Sharron had a rare gift for making complex information feel like a conversation with a friend. She famously joked that after 15 years of life on the road, she “sure didn’t miss the Holiday Inns,” finally trading hotel keys for the comforts of home and family.

While she was a powerhouse in the studio, Sharron’s greatest production was her family. She was the heart of her home, a mother who led with humor, grace, and an occasional “reporter’s instinct” that made it impossible for her daughters to get anything past her.

Sharron is now joyfully reunited with her beloved husband, Neil Derrough, the former president of CBS Television Stations, who passed away in February 2025. After a year apart, we know they are currently catching up on every detail, likely over a perfect meal and a great story.

She leaves behind her three daughters–Carolyn, Becca, and Thea–who will forever carry her penchant for storytelling, her infectious laughter, and her strength. Sharron is also survived by her sisters, Gail Weeker and Jane Banks, who remain the keepers of their shared childhood memories, and their children and grandchildren, who held such a special place in her heart. In a moment our family will forever hold close, Sharron was able to meet her first grandchild, Penelope, just a few days before she passed, which brought her such great joy.

Sharron believed in the power of a well-told story and the importance of focusing on what matters most, family and friends. In her honor, we ask that you share a laugh, tell a great story, and cherish the people you love today.