It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Derek, a long-standing and cherished member of the McDonald's family. Derek, the voice ventriloquist for the beloved puppet character, Charlie - Yellow Bahamian, brought joy and laughter to countless children and families over the years.

Derek was not just a team member; he was a treasured friend and an integral part of our McDonald's community. For over a decade, he graced our restaurants with his remarkable talent and infectious enthusiasm. With Charlie by his side, Derek transformed ordinary visits to McDonald's into extraordinary moments of fun and entertainment.

Like The Pied Piper, Charlie had a loyal following that followed him to every restaurant. Families from near and far would flock to our restaurants, drawn by the enchanting presence of Derek and Charlie. Their magic was so powerful that it transcended individual locations, creating a bond with our customers that spanned generations.

Charlie - Yellow Bahamian was not just a puppet; he was a magical friend to children of all ages. Derek's exceptional ventriloquism skills made Charlie come alive in a way that captivated the hearts of kids and adults alike. His ability to play games, distribute music, and host kids' parties made every visit to McDonald's an unforgettable experience.

Charlie also coined Special Songs around McDonald's menu. Derek's creativity knew no bounds. He crafted catchy jingles and songs that celebrated our menu items, turning a simple meal into a musical adventure. These tunes became a part of our McDonald's culture, etching themselves into the memories of countless patrons who couldn't help but sing along.

Charlie also taught the kids valuable lessons. Beyond the laughter and the songs, Charlie - Yellow Bahamian, under Derek's guidance, imparted valuable life lessons to children. From the importance of sharing to the magic of friendship, Charlie's antics were not just entertaining but also educational, leaving a positive impact on the young minds that adored him.

Derek's presence at McDonald's was more than just a job; it was a vocation. He had an extraordinary gift for connecting with children and creating golden memories. Parents and guardians often reminisce about how their children looked forward to seeing Derek and Charlie, how their laughter filled our restaurants, and how their happiness became an indelible part of their McDonald's experience.

Derek's legacy is one of joy, kindness, and genuine care for the happiness of others. His warm smile, quick wit, and love for entertaining will forever be etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. He was not only a crowd favourite but also a true ambassador of McDonald's values.

As we mourn the loss of Derek, we also celebrate the incredible impact he had on our brand and the countless lives he touched. We extend our deepest condolences to Derek's family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. We will forever be grateful for the laughter and happiness he brought into our McDonald's family.

While Derek may no longer be with us in person, his spirit and the joy he brought to our restaurants will live on in the memories of all who had the pleasure of sharing a moment with him and Charlie - Yellow Bahamian.

We will continue to honour Derek's legacy by striving to bring smiles and happiness to every McDonald's visit, just as he did. He will forever remain an integral part of our McDonald's family, and we will carry his memory with us in all that we do.

In loving memory of Derek.