Gerald "Gerry" Edwin Drake Sr.

Gerald "Gerry" E. Drake Sr., 80, of Franklin passed away Monday, September 25, 2023, at home surrounded by his family.

Gerry was born on December 5, 1942 in Pittsfield, Massachusetts to Edwin and Rita Drake. For many years, he operated Drakes Auto Parts in Lee, Ma. and later Drake’s Towing in Otto, NC. He loved restoring classic cars and enjoyed riding his Harley during his spare time.

He was married for 60 years to his devoted wife, Donna Heath Drake. The couple had five children, Gerald E. Drake Jr. (Tina) of Lee, Mass., Jean Marie Owen (Fred), Christine Drake, and Patty Raby (Steve), all of Franklin and Jonathan Drake (Lexus) of Sevierville, TN. and a special friend who was like a son, Pedro Hernandez. Six grandchildren: Evan Laudon, Christian Drake, Marcus Drake, Cole Raby, Corrie Kinsland and Bo Kinsland and six great-grandchildren. Also surviving are five sisters, Marilyn Fennelly (Bill), Judy Morehouse (Ray), Margie Farnham (Charlie), Shirley Sparks (Billy), Ellie Munson (George), and one brother, Eddie Drake, of Mass. and N.C.

A visitation will be held Thursday September 28th from 6-8 pm at Bryant-Grant Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kaylee’s Closet, a non-profit organization devoted to foster families in Macon County.

Online condolences can be left at www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com

Bryant-Grant Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Drake family.