The Owasso community is mourning the loss of Dr. George “Dale” Derby.

Dr. Derby was the medical director of anesthesia and chairman of the board at Bailey Medical Center in Owasso.

Derby also served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives from 2017 to 2019.

According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Derby attempted to swim out to a disabled boat Tuesday when he went under the water. Troopers say he never resurfaced.

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Bailey Medical Center’s CEO released the following statement:

“Dr. Dale Derby served as medical director of anesthesia and chairman of the board at Bailey Medical Center but his most important role was friend. An active participant in the hospital, he was highly respected by his peers. One of his favorite sayings was that every single patient is family. He lived by this every day. Everyone was special to him. Dr. Derby is a founding member of Bailey as he was with the hospital since its beginnings in 2006. He also served the community, representing Owasso in District 74 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, from 2017 to 2019. Dr. Derby was loved by the Bailey family and will be greatly missed.” Scott Lasson CEO, Bailey Medical Center.

A post of Facebook from a woman who appears to be his daughter posted a tribute to Dr. Derby.

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