James R. Drakeley

1929 - 2022

James R. Drakeley, 92, passed away peacefully Thursday, March 31, 2022, in Evergreen Personal Care Facility.

James was born July 18, 1929, in Philadelphia, a son of the late Aloysious and Theresa Drakeley of Wildwood, N.J. He spent the majority of his life in Washington.

Upon graduation from high school, James eagerly enlisted in the United States Army to proudly serve his country. He attended Rutgers University in New Jersey, and Washington and Jefferson College in Washington. He worked the majority of his life at RCA in Meadowlands as a plant manager.

On November 11, 1979 in St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, he married Katherine M. Deep Drakeley who preceded him in death on December 17, 2017, and with whom he had celebrated thirty-eight years of a wonderful marriage.

James was best known for his love of the outdoors, many hunting adventures, and affection for his numerous cats and dogs, especially his beloved German Shepherds. He was a marksman shooter who enjoyed target shooting with his children and grandchildren. James loved football and served as a youth football coach in his younger days. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan who cheered the black and gold for over 50 years. He was also a member of Immaculate Conception Parish for most of his life.

Surviving are his three sons, James T. Drakeley (Carol), Thomas E. Drakeley (Susan), Joe Drakeley (Helen); and five grandchildren, Jared (Lindsay), Scott (Kristen), Chad (Abbey), Tim (Erin), Matt (Emily); 11 great-grandchildren; along with numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. James has a particularly close relationship with his nephew, John Trax, as a special friend and caregiver.

At the request of the family, all arrangements are private and entrusted to DeAngelo Funeral Home in Canonsburg.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to your favorite pet charity in his name.

A tribute wall is available at www.deangelocare.com.