Harry DeReef, the youngest of eight children, was born on March 23, 1953, to William "Tunk" & Bessie Utsey DeReef. He departed this life to a place of eternal rest on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.

Two brothers and two children preceded him in death: Sammie DeReef, Howard DeReef, James Ravenell and Gerald Moore.

In 1973 he married Minnie Ann Moore. To this union, one son was born-Michael DeReef. Minnie Ann preceded him in death. He was later joined in Holy matrimony to Sheila L. Pearson. They were blessed with one son, Christopher DeReef in 1996. In 2012 he met Tonia Williams, which remained committed until his passing.

Harry was educated in the public schools of Dorchester County. At an early age he began a career in construction with his father and brother Tommy. Upon the untimely passing of their father, he moved to Rockhill, SC with his brother Marvin where he worked in textile until returning home. Throughout the years Harry wore many hats as he was often referred to as a "Jack of all trades". To support his family, he worked full-time as a production laborer and maintenance technician at Saint George Villas and Cedar Woods Apartment complex while running his own part-time handy man service. Harry never met a stranger and is described as an outstanding father, friend and mate. He could always be counted on to be there for those that needed him, talk major trash about why they needed him, and then cook meals that would make you forget your troubles. As a child he has been described by his siblings as spoiled, yet protective even though he was the youngest. His children describe him as a good dad-stern, stubborn and loving. Harry had a heart of gold and to know him was to love him.

He leaves to cherish his memories: his loving, devoted soulmate Tonia Williams, of the home; children, Michael (Shannon) DeReef, Cumberland, MD, Staff Sgt Christoper DeReef, Elgin, SC, Keisha Ravenell, Jaquetta "Cricket" Ravenell, Eric Ravenell, Jonel Williams, and Damien Williams all of St. George SC; 9 grandchildren-Jazanya, Jakob, Aiden, Antonel, Dirondi, Journey, KeShawn, Jasain and Kayden; five siblings: Nell Utsey-Williams, Brooklyn NY, Alonzo DeReef, Brooklyn, NY, Tommy DeReef, St George SC, Sarah Singletary, St George SC, and Marvin DeReef, Rockhill SC and a special niece raised as his sibling, Josephine Williams, Baltimore, MD, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.