Franklin Welch Drake

Franklin Welch Drake, 88, died peacefully at Doctor’s West Hospital in Columbus, Ohio on March 30, 2025. Frank was born to Lorenzo Roy and Lona Mae (Turner) Drake of Sedley, Virginia on February 7, 1937. Frank was preceded in death by his wife (who lovingly referred to him as “Killer”) of 65 years, Judy Belle (Purtee) Drake; his parents; four sisters, Barbara “Bob” C. Drake, Dorothy “Dot” L. Godwin, Eleanor R. Barnes, and Sara “Snookie” F. Forrest; four brothers, Billy L. Drake, Clinton Drake, Milton Drake, Roy Carl Drake; and an infant daughter, Kelly Drake. He is survived by his daughter, Bonnie (Tom) Beatty; son, Franklin (Stacy) W. Drake, Jr.; grandchildren, Catey (Nick) Coughlin, Becca (Liz Bell) Beatty, Alex Drake, Madi Drake, and Grace Drake; great grandchildren, Olivia and Reece Coughlin; many nieces and nephews; dear friends; and a beloved canine companion, Sadie. Frank served as a member of the. U.S. Air Force and was a veteran of the Korean War. He worked as a manager for many years at Zettler’s Hardware and later retired from Quest Diagnostics. He is remembered most for his love of animals, and he especially enjoyed spending time outdoors. Frank was an avid fan of harness racing and at one time owned his own award-winning horses. You could always find him at the horse track or watching the races on television. Your Ohio Lottery jackpot will be reduced significantly with his inability to purchase tickets. The family would like to express their immense gratitude for the loving support he received for the last year from his caregiver, Fred. The family will receive visitors at Newcomer Grove City, 3393 Broadway, Grove City, OH 43123, on Sunday, April 6, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., and funeral services will be held Monday, April 7, at 1:00 p.m. at the same location. Interment will follow at Sunset Cemetery, 6959 W. Broad St., Galloway, OH 43119.