Nell Utsey-Williams Obituary
We announce the death of Nell Utsey-Williams of Brooklyn, New York, who passed away on July 1, 2026, at the age of 87. Nell will be remembered by family members, friends, and others whose lives were connected in meaningful ways. Family and friends are welcome to send flowers or leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
She was predeceased by: her grandparents, Wonnie and Carrie Wade Utsey; her husband John Williams; her son Jamil Williams; her brothers, Sammie DeReef, Howard DeReef and Harry DeReef; and her parents, Bessie Mae Utsey and William "Tunk" DeReef.
She is survived by: her aunt Mary "Lokey" Johnson; her daughter Josephine Williams of Baltimore, Maryland; her grandsons, Rafael Williams (Tamekia) of Summerville, David Williams (Regina) of Baltimore and Elijah "Blu" Williams of Orangeburg; her great grandchildren, Roshod, Robert, Deznisha, Zaria, Normanda, Lalik and Elijah Jaylon; her great great grandchildren, Kyro, Jakoby and Emerson; her siblings, Sarah Singletary of St. George, Alonzo DeReef (Rose) of Brooklyn, Tommy DeReef (Annie) of St. George and Marvin DeReef (Karen) of Rock Hill; and her friends, Ernestine and Doris of Brooklyn. She is also survived by loving nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends.
