Rev. Robert Drew Derreth

Rev. Robert Drew Derreth, 61, of Hanover, died Sunday, June 14th surrounded by his family at Wellspan York Hospital.

Drew was born to Robert and Nellie Derreth in Baltimore on September 22, 1964. He proudly graduated from Baltimore Polytechnic Institute before earning degrees at UMBC and Westminster Seminary. He served as Associate Pastor at Valley Presbyterian Church for eight years. Then, he and his wife, Becky Derreth, planted a church with a fiercely committed community of friends. In 1997, Hanover Valley Presbyterian Church was born. For the next three decades Drew would serve the growing church and Hanover community faithfully as lead pastor. For births, baptisms, weddings, and funerals, Drew shared the love and joy of Jesus to families. On Sunday mornings he preached the gospel with inspired insight, and each day he sought to embolden and comfort troubled and yearning hearts. His great life’s work is the fulfillment of God’s call to spread good news to all we meet. His labor was for the redemption of our hearts and the gain of God’s kingdom. Above all, he showed us God’s love.

Drew had many loves and passions in his life. His family was his prize and his heart’s content. Nothing brought him joy like a date with his wife, a dinner with his children, or playtime with his grandchildren. He was an accomplished theater performer, starring in musicals throughout the region, including with the York Belmont Theater and Gettysburg Theater companies. He was known for his powerful baritone singing voice. He loved art, movies, and creative culture. He loved Baltimore, festivals, day trips, surprises, gifts, and celebrations.

He joins his grandson James in eternal glory. He is survived by his wife Becky, his children Tyler and Jess Derreth, Hannah and Elijah Holt, and Katie Derreth, and his grandsons Jack and Liam. He is further survived by the family, friends, and church community that he shepherded so dearly and faithfully. Those he leaves eagerly anticipate, with deep love, rejoining him in perfection by God’s grace.

There will be a memorial service celebrating Drew’s life at Chapelgate Presbyterian Church, 2600 Olive Branch Way, Marriottsville, MD 21104 on June 27th at 11am.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hanover Valley Presbyterian Church, 133 Carlisle Street, Hanover, PA 17331.