Obituary: Jerry Lee Drake
Jerry Lee Drake, 84, passed away on February 20, 2026.
A private service will be held for family and friends.
Jerry grew up in Pleasant Garden, North Carolina, where he graduated from Pleasant Garden High School. He continued his education at Elon University and later earned his master’s degree in education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
In his early adult life, Jerry dedicated himself to education and athletics. He served as an educator and was the head baseball coach at Elon University, sharing his love of the game while mentoring young athletes. Baseball remained a lifelong passion, and he stayed actively involved through Professional Baseball Representatives. He was also a devoted supporter of UNC athletics and a loyal fan of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Jerry later followed in his father’s footsteps into the dental laboratory business, where he built a distinguished career. As President of Affordable Dentures Dental Laboratories, he was known for his strong work ethic, compassion, leadership, and unwavering dedication to excellence.
Outside of his professional life, Jerry found great joy in fishing and in spending time with those he loved most. His family was center of his world, and he especially cherished his grandchildren. To them, he will always be remembered for his warm sense of humor, generosity, and deep, abiding love.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Carl Bernard Drake and Dorothy Setzer Drake; his wife of 46 years, Betty Dortch Drake; and his infant brother, Donald Carl Drake.
Jerry is survived by his daughter, Natasha Drake and her husband, Clay Willams of Farmville, NC; his sister, Joyce Kay Drake and her husband, Ralph Roberson of Julian, NC; grandchildren, Aidan, Logan, and Colton; his lifelong friend and honorary brother, Dudley W. Purdy, Jr. of Maryland; and many cousins, extended family members, and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Wounded Warriors Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256, or Turn Two for Youth, Crane, 1307 W Morehead St STE 207, Charlotte, NC 28208.
Arrangements made by Edwards Funeral Home & Cremations. Online condolences may be made at www.edwardsfhc.com.
