J. Drake Obituary
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Allegany - J. Paige Drake, a resident of Allegany, peacefully passed away on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at her home following a brief illness.
Born on January 27, 1940, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Charles and Chrystal (Fox) Charles. On August 11, 1962, she married Donald Drake at St. Mary of the Angels Church in Olean; he predeceased her in 1993.
Paige graduated as salutatorian from Eldred High School in 1957. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Mansfield State College in 1961, where she was inducted into Kappa Delta Pi, the national education honor society. She later obtained her Master of Science in Education from St. Bonaventure University in 1965.
Paige devoted her life to teaching, spending the majority of her 38-year career as a first-grade teacher at Washington West in the Olean City School District. Her exceptional contributions to education were recognized when she received the Alcas Corporation's Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award in 1992, having been named runner-up the year before.
A dedicated member of Christ United Methodist Church in Olean, Paige sang in the Chancel Choir for over 40 years and served on various church committees.
Outside her professional life, Paige had a passion for decorating and caring for her home. She was an avid reader, an enthusiastic bridge player, and enjoyed golfing. She was a long-time member of the Olean YMCA, Interfaith Caregivers, the Olean General Hospital Auxiliary, the 60 Plus Senior Organization of Allegany, and the American Contract Bridge Association. Additionally, she was affiliated with the NEA and NYSTA. Paige cherished the moments spent with family and friends the most. Her past two years were made extra special at her new home, thanks to the Field of Dreams Community.
She is survived by her two children, Laura P. Frase of Rye and John (Nicole) Drake of Allegany; four beloved grandchildren, Caelinn Drake, Emily Frase, Fiona Drake, and Caroline Frase; one sister Joella Demidont; two brothers-in-law, Robert Guenther and David (Marge) Drake; along with several nieces, nephews and dear friends.
In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by her sister, Sally Guenther and brother-in-law, Andreas Demidont.
Per Paige's request, there will be no visitation or services; a private burial will be at St. Bonaventure Cemetery. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to:
Olean General Hospital, 515 Main Street, Olean, NY
Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, P.O. Box 631, Buffalo, NY 14240
Olean Public Library, 134 N. 2nd Street, Olean, NY
HomeCare and Hospice, 115 E. Main Street, Allegany, NY
Interfaith Caregivers, P.O. Box 319, Olean, NY
Arrangements are under the direction of Guenther Funeral Home, Inc., 1303 East State St., Olean. Online condolences may be shared at www.guentherfh.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
6 Entries
Kathy and Russ Peace
August 1, 2025
Paige was such a lovely classy lady and we knew each other for years. Every two weeks we would have girls night out and we went on many wonderful vacations with each other and also with our spouses. We were so happy we were able to visit with Paige on the Sunday before she passed away. We loved her and we will miss her terribly. Rest in peace, precious Paige. Love, Kathy and Russ Peace
Gail Hirst
July 29, 2025
Paige was my neighbor for 21 years and an excellent neighbor she was! She was kind and caring and always in the know!
She was also a bridge aficionado and I was fortunate to learn much from her vast store of knowledge on the subject. I will forever hear her saying, "Gail, you must open if you have 6 or more points"!
We held hundreds of conversations at the end of our driveways at mail time over the years on a multitude of topics.
She kept an impeccable home and the holidays it always looked beautiful inside and out. I liked to tease her and call her Martha Stewart and she would laugh!
A prolific walker in all seasons she was out and about in the neighborhood on a daily basis. We looked forward to seeing her walking even after she moved to her new home at Field of Dreams.
I am sure see was welcomed by her elite bridge playing friends like Ruth Baum and Toni Hartman. They are playing right now.
Kathleen ( Stevens) Steely
July 27, 2025
My heart goes out for the entire family as I considered Paige Drake part of my family for over 25 years. Thank you for your constant presence as well as hosting many family celebrations. Your smile and laugh and love will never be forgotten. You were classy and loving to the very end. Truly heartbroken Kathleen (Stevens) Steely.
Jane Wolcott
July 26, 2025
Paige was my husband´s babysitter in Eldred, PA. many, many years ago. He always had fond memories of her. I got to know Paige at the YMCA, where she took many classes, and she excelled in them. Paige always had a smile and kind words to share. I will miss seeing her every day, as I´m sure so many others would agree. RIP, beautiful lady.
Jane Wolcott
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Kathleen
July 26, 2025
Paige was a wonderful, caring person. She was my daughter´s teacher at WW and also a colleague. Recently I would see her at the YMCA. She will certainly be missed by many. Rest in peace sweet woman.
Lols Stoughton
July 26, 2025
To the family of our sweet Paige Drake:
So many wonderful alumni reunions and the visits to Judy at her cottage on Rushford Lake. It's great to have such great memories to cling to. God bless you all with peace, comfort and strength during this difficult time.
Love,
Skeet and Lola Stoughton
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