Melissa Derrick Harder

Melissa Derrick Harder entered Heaven on April 11, 2025 after a brief, acute illness.

Born in Columbia, South Carolina, she was the daughter of Richard and Patricia Derrick. She graduated high school from Calhoun Academy in St. Matthews, South Carolina in 1989 and graduated from the University of South Carolina in 1995.

In 2005, Melissa married William David Harder of Orangeburg, South Carolina. Melissa and David traveled the United States, making Seattle their home for a time. Ultimately, they returned to South Carolina and lived on James Island. In 2006, their daughter Hannah was born and from that time forward, Melissa devoted herself to being a mother and homemaker. She moved to Lexington, South Carolina, to be closer to her family after the untimely death of her husband in 2008.

Melissa loved the beauty of the outdoors. As both a child and an adult, she wanted to be near or live on the water, treasuring her years in Charleston living on the creek. Melissa found joy in walking, spending time with her loved ones, laughing, caring for her dogs, and helping others. She was a friend to everyone.

The greatest love of Melissa's life was her sweet daughter Hannah, of whom she was so proud.

Melissa is survived by her daughter, Hannah, her parents, Richard and Patricia Derrick of Lexington, South Carolina; her sister, Catherine Taylor (Marshall) of Columbia, South Carolina, and her nephews Marsh, Jack, and Campbell Taylor; and many beloved cousins, aunts, and uncles. A graveside service will be held at 1:30 pm on Saturday, April 19, 2025 at Woodridge Memorial Park, 138 Corley Mill Road, Lexington, South Carolina. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Final Victory Animal Rescue, 919 North Lucas Street, West Columbia, South Carolina 29169, www.finalvictoryrescue.com.

Services are under the direction of Barr-Price Funeral Home, Lexington Chapel.

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