Harry Eugene Drake, age 89, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 7, in Augusta, Ga. Graveside services will be held on Friday, Sept. 15, in Oakridge Cemetery, in Madison. Rev. Lamar Albrighton will officiate.
Harry was born in Adrian, Ga., but lived his younger life in Lakeland, Fl. He joined the Army at the end of World War II and served under General Douglas MacArthur during the allied occupation of Japan. Harry loved his country and was always interested in politics. He attended the University of Florida and graduated from the School of Forestry. He was always a Florida Gator.
Harry worked for International Paper Co. in a supervisory position in the Woodlands Department around the southeast for 35 years before retiring. He was a member of Hopewell United Methodist Church and was a true Christian. He was very proud of his ancestry and was a member of Sons of the American Revolution. The Society of American Foresters was also an important part of his life and profession.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon Lewis Drake Sr. and Elizabeth White Drake; and a brother, Leon Lewis Drake Jr. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn; daughter, Barbara Drake, of Milledgeville; son, Richard Drake and wife Alla; four grandchildren: Laura, David, Paul, and Mark, all from Molena, Ga.; sister, Neva Patton; brother-in-law and lifelong friend, William Patton; a nephew and several nieces.
Flowers will be accepted, or donations to your favorite charity. Harry's favorite charity was the Methodist Children's Home in Macon, Ga.