Benjamin Walter Drake

We are gathered here today to celebrate the extraordinary life of Benjamin Drake—a devoted family man, a proud veteran, a dedicated public servant, and a true steward of the earth. At 84 years old, Ben lived a life that was rich in experiences, defined by hard work, and overflowing with love for the world and the people around him. 

Ben’s journey began on a small farm in New Jersey. Growing up as one of eleven siblings, his childhood was vibrant, bustling, and full of life. It was during these early years that his lifelong passion for the outdoors was born. He often spoke with great fondness of the days spent fishing and hunting with his brothers, Jake and Bob—bonds that laid the foundation for the man he would become.

When duty called, Ben proudly stepped up to serve his country in the United States Navy. His military service was a chapter of honor, but it also brought him the greatest blessing of his youth: meeting and marrying Lula Edwards Drake. Together, they brought two beautiful children into the world, Bonnie and Billy, whom Ben loved deeply. 

After his service, Ben returned to civilian life with the same work ethic that defined his time in the military. He spent time working on a horse farm in New Jersey, connecting with the animals he so respected. Eventually, his leadership and desire to protect his community led him to become a foreman in the Road Department, and later, the Fire Chief of the Chester Fire Department. As Fire Chief, Ben put his life on the line for his neighbors, embodying what it truly means to serve others. 

As life moved forward, Ben’s heart expanded even further. He married Carole, and together, they built a beautiful blended family, welcoming her children, Scot and Megan, into his life and home. He was a steady, loving presence as the kids grew up and ventured out into the world. 

With the nest empty, Ben and Carole chased the warmth down to Nokomis, Florida. For a man who loved the water, Florida was a paradise. Life there revolved around the simple, profound joys of fishing, boating, and being out on the open water with the sun on his face. 

But the mountains were calling. Later in life, Ben and Carole relocated to Nebo, North Carolina, where they built their dream home amidst the hills. It was here, in the quiet majesty of nature, that Ben truly flourished in his final chapters. He returned to his passions for hunting and fishing, and quickly became a beloved fixture in the community, forging deep and lasting friendships.

To know Ben in Nebo was to know a man entirely at peace with the world around him. He was a true friend to nature. His gentle spirit was so evident that the local wildlife—the deer, the raccoons, the wild turkeys, the squirrels, a loyal turtle, and even a feral cat—learned to trust him completely. He took care of them, and in return, they gave him immense joy. 

Ben was also an avid gardener and landscaper who believed that the fruits of his labor belonged to everyone. He grew an abundance of fresh produce, not for himself, but to share generously with his community. He volunteered his time at the local dog shelter, giving voice to the voiceless, and spent countless hours landscaping the common areas of his homeowners association, making the world more beautiful just because he was in it.

Above all, Ben treasured his family. His children and his grandchildren were his ultimate pride and joy. 

Ben will be remembered for his fierce love of family, his unwavering service to his country and community, his undeniable work ethic, and his deep stewardship of the natural world. He left every place he lived better than he found it, and he left all of us with a profound blueprint of a life well-lived.

Ben, we love you, we miss you, and we will carry your legacy of kindness, service, and love for the earth with us every single day. Rest in peace.