Emily Drayton

Emily Drayton ObituaryEmily Drayton, 78, of New London, Connecticut (CT), entered eternal rest on February 3, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Charleston, South Carolina (SC) on April 19, 1946, to the late Henry Singleton and Virginia (Gathers) Singleton. Emily was the 20th child out of 30 siblings. She graduated from Lang High School, home of the Wolverines.
Emily relocated to New London in 1964 for a new beginning. Shortly after living in New London, Emily reconnected with her high school classmate, Leroy Drayton, in 1965. Leroy knew he always wanted to marry Emily. They were engaged for a year and got married in 1967. Emily and Leroy shared a wonderful marriage for 54 years.
In the early 70s, Emily decided to dedicate her life to serving the Lord. She became a proud member of Pentecostal Rescue Mission C.O.G.I.C., under the leadership of the late Pastor L.C. and Mother Ethel Fisher. Until her passing, she was as a faithful member and great servant as a Missionary of the church under the current leadership of Pastor Nathaniel Scott Sr. Missionary Drayton was an eager Sunday School student and Usher Board member. She also served as a worker of the Mission Dinner until its closing. She was a past PRM Choir member, member of the sewing circle, a diligent worker of the Missionary and Deaconess board, and committed to the Women's Department. Many of Missionary Drayton's garments and crochet crafts were showcased in church and gifted to the those she loved. However, Missionary Drayton's proudest work within the church was fulfilling the role of Pastor Aid Board President. As president of the Pastor Aid Board, Missionary Drayton executed numerous fundraisers, ran the church's kitchen producing amazing soul food, and provided the community with countless charitable acts of love.
While living in CT, Emily worked for a short period of time at New London Rehab. Then she found employment with Pfizer for 26 years until she retired. Her big heart and love for family lead Emily to being an influential foster parent. Emily was a collector of porcelain dolls and China dishes. She enjoyed watching a good television show and doing word search.
Besides Emily's parents, she was predeceased by her husband Deacon Leroy Drayton; two sons, Leroy Drayton Jr. and John Singleton; sisters, brothers, nieces and nephews. Her legacy lives on through her children, three sisters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, Godchildren, nieces, nephews, a host of extended family and friends.
Emily will forever be remembered for her unwavering faith, selflessness, willingness to aid anyone in need, and being a prominent matriarchal figure in and outside of her household showcasing unconditional love. Her resilience laid a foundation for her leadership, loyalty, dependability and unique way of delivering the truth so others could thrive. Though to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord; Missionary Emily Drayton will be greatly missed and never forgotten. A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at 11a.m at St. John's Christian Church, 346 Shennecossett RD. Groton, CT. Family and Friends may view at 10a.m at the church until time of service. Interment will be held in Cedar Grove Cemetery, New London, CT.
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Emily Drayton, 78, of New London, Connecticut (CT), entered eternal rest on February 3, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Charleston, South Carolina (SC) on April 19, 1946, to the late Henry Singleton and Virginia (Gathers) Singleton. Emily was the 20th child out of 30 siblings. She graduated from Lang High School, home of t