My experience in the working corporate world, and sitting through a few companywide required "harrassement" type classes enables me to form this opinion:
1) They did not have to issue you your check early, nice if they would, but not required.
2) If you even once used the "f" word, and the woman you used it to filed a complaint with the company, they had no choice but terminate your employment. If they didnt, she would have a great lawsuit against them for allowing you to create and maintain an intimidating workplace.
3) I have never heard that it is illegal anywhere in the USA to give a good or bad reference, but a large percentage of companies by written policy will only officially supply a confirmation of employment stating date of hiring and date of employment termination (whatever the reason, fired, quit, etc.). They follow these policies to prevent lawsuits by a company they recommended a person to, or a person who was not hired elsewhere because of a bad reference. Good or bad opinions are just that, subjective opinions and can be challenged in court. Factual information can be provided without fear of lawsuit. This does not in any way prevent one HR person whispering to another HR person "off the record" what they know, and you will have a heck of time proving that conversation ever existed.
My suggestion, move on, forget about it, but be honest in future employment search. Explain the situation if asked, and admit you made a mistake that you would never repeat. Just my thoughts, good luck,
dago