Valerie Drake

1963 - 2022

Valerie Drake
December 2, 1963 ~ October 29, 2022
Valerie Drake, 58 of Meriden, passed away October 29, 2022 at Mid State Hospital in Meriden. She was born December 2, 1963 in Trenton, NJ to George and Barbara (Squires) Drake. Valerie is survived by her parents; a loving and devoted son, Raymond Marquis (Jamie Dugan) of Norfolk, VA; companion, Walter Swistak of Meriden and a sister, Barbara Chambers of Sarasota, FL.
Valerie Drake was a devoted mother who committed her life to her family and to her community. As a house keeper and gardener, she brought comfort and joy to the homes of countless clientele. Through her work with Bikers Against Animal Cruelty she helped raise funds and find homes for countless animals in need of foster and forever homes. With the Valhalla Mc she helped fundraise and support families and services of fallen veterans.
Valerie was a woman who could make a room feel full when there were few. She had a big personality but even a bigger heart. Her distinct laugh that couldn't be missed in the loudest of parties and her ability to make friends with everyone she came in contact with were some of the defining features of Valerie. She was someone who would give when she had little and could bring someone who was down back up. Her tough love was always genuine and she never gave up on those she cared about.
Valerie had an unparalleled love for her friends, animals, and the outdoors. She was never one to miss a party. Her firecracker personality lit up every room she ever walked into. She will be with all of her friends forever and always in their hearts and minds. The impact she had in her community will be felt far into the future.
All services are private and under the care of the Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home, East Haven, CT.
www.Clancy-PalumboFuneralHome.com
203-467-2789