Derrek Leon Lee was born December 4, 1962 at Mercy Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida to the late James Clark the late Eula Mae Lee. Derrek went by many names: "Pipe"; "Piper"; and "Cat Daddy" just to name a few. Derrek headed to brighter shores at his home on May 31, 2025.
When you think of Derrek, there are many ways to describe him. The main descriptor that comes to mind is, "Life of the Party". He had an unmatched ability to light up every room he entered with his humor, antics, and magnetic energy. Whether he was telling a story, singing or dancing without inhibition, Derrek brought people together and made ordinary moments unforgettable.
As a child, Derrek accepted Christ and was a member of the choir at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church. He rededicated his life to Christ in 2018 at New Covenant Baptist Church under the pastorate of Pastor Joseph Reid.
Derrek was educated in Pinellas County Schools where he attended Gibbs High School. Derrek went on to work for the Liberty Group and spent over 30 years as a Mason Tender at Harrell Construction. He was very skilled with his hands and loved helping others by doing odd jobs.
At the heart of his joy was his wife of 25 years, Minnie, who stood by him with unwavering love and devotion. Their marriage was filled with laughter and they genuinely enjoyed one another's company, finding joy in both life's big milestones and everyday routines. She was his greatest supporter and closest friend, remaining by his side faithfully through many chapters, including his final moments. Minnie's strength, compassion and deep love was a testament to the beautiful bond they shared.
Derrek was preceded in death by his late siblings: Roger "Pic" Conyer; Terry Collins; Aldolph Conley; Yvette Diane Lee; and Michael Lee.
Derrek's memory will forever be treasured by his devoted wife, Minnie Lee, with whom he shared 25 years. He also leaves to mourn, his four sons: Derrick Ramone Lee, Sr. (Christine); Derrick Leon Lee; Ira James Lee; and Erick Shawn Lee; fifteen grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; two sisters, AlJean Bryant and Sandra Lee Toomes; one brother, Stephen "TuTu" Tutson; three brothers-in-law: Reginald Whitehead (Dinette); Gregory Robinson (Darlene); and Walter Robinson; sister-in-law Janice Burnette; cherished nieces: Ayanna "Nikki" Taylor; Lateria Lee; Arshawna Parks; Ashley Andrade; Sade Anderson (Lorenzo); Aliyah Tutson; Selina Tutson; Ciara Tutson; and nephew Elijah Tutson. A host of additional nephews, nieces, cousins, and cherished friends will also honor his memory.
Although our beloved Derrek has left this earthly realm, allow the rich memories to fill moments of sadness and void. The best way to honor his memory is to model your life the way he lived his: unapologetically!
