Something like a Bianchi Castro Valley might suit you. It has a rear derailleur, but only one front chainring, so no front derailleur. 7 speeds (I think). My mother has a Breezer Villager, which has an internal hub, but it's a bit heavy for my taste. Her commute is only three miles roundtrip.

I have never had trouble with derailleurs, as long as you keep them lubed and cleaned every once in a while.