Raymond John Drake

Raymond J. Drake joined his Heavenly Father on Wednesday, February 22, 2012 after being His faithful servant for 90 years. He was born July 5, 1921 in Southampton, NY to F. Raymond and Luella Drake. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by a sister and two brothers.

Surviving are his loving wife of 62 years, Anita; son, Charles (Chuck) Drake and wife, Sherakee; a daughter, Marcia Branson and husband, Tim; grandchildren, Renee LePage and Carol Hannon of New York, Drake Branson, Chas Branson, Annette Branson, and Stephanie Sanford; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Phyllis and Bob Fasnacht; and several nieces and nephews.

A World War II veteran, Ray served in the US Navy in the Pacific Theatre from 1942-1946. He then graduated from Hobart College in Geneva, NY. He enjoyed a career in banking for 30 years.

Anita and Ray moved from Bay Shore, Long Island to retire in Hendersonville in 1979. They became involved in a variety of activities and organizations. Ray was a faithful member of the Hendersonville United Methodist Church for 33 years. Ray and Anita have enjoyed living at Lake Pointe Landing for the past seven years. Rayís love of playing the drums was obvious to all who knew him! He enjoyed playing his drums up until the last month of his life. His smile, his hugs, and his zest for life will truly be missed. He was an amazing and much loved husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

A memorial service to celebrate Ray Drakeís life will be held at 2 PM Sunday, February 26, 2012 at the Hendersonville United Methodist Church with Military Honors conducted by Hubert M. Smith American Legion Post 77, Hedrick-Rhodes Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5206, and Disabled American Veterans Chapter 14. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Hendersonville, 204 Sixth Ave West, Hendersonville, NC 28739, or to the

Hendersonville Rescue Mission, P.O. Box 1512, Hendersonville, NC 28793.