Draylon Askew

Easy going, a good listener, practical, and having never met a stranger, are just few of the adjectives that describe Draylon. He was a person who always carried a strong sense of reality throughout his life. Possessed with traditional “old school” morals, Draylon was an individual who love to communicate with everyone and had a special gift of allowing others to feel comfortable, relaxed and share their thoughts in a nonjudgmental zone. Everyone acquainted with Draylon appreciated his ability to listen and give sound practical advice.

His parents were Haywood and Catherine Askew. Draylon was raised in San Fernando Valley, California. Even as a youngster, Draylon learned the value of a job and the act of sharing. Often shining shoes as preteen in local neighborhood barber shops and taking a portion of his earnings to purchase ice cream for his 7 siblings. His faith in the principles of karma and accountability was something that he carried with him throughout his life.

As a young boy, Draylon was able to put his natural abilities to work. He was often surrounded by lots of friends who enjoyed his openness and friendly nature. He was close and protective of his siblings helping to make sure that they were un harmed. Draylon was raised with 7 siblings (2 brothers and 5 sisters). He had an older brother, Byron, younger brother, Julius, and 5 younger sisters: Sandra, Deborah, Charlotte, Rosiland, and Diane. Draylon also had appreciation for his parents often accompanying his father on odd jobs as well as assisting his dad with automobile projects.

Draylon's matter-of-fact attitude about most things was developed during his childhood. As a young boy, Draylon enjoyed being part of teams, and organizations and groups of other kids who shared similar interests. Draylon took part in football, baseball, basketball, and track. He was a Commando. In his spare time, he liked racing against friends, marbles, and football.

In school, Draylon was as close to being a model student as one could possibly imagine. He sought to achieve perfect attendance in all of his classes. He would eagerly complete his homework, and often put in extra study time when he felt it was necessary. A logical and focused thinker, Draylon was always good at following directions and meeting his schedules, whether they were set by his teachers or were self-imposed. Draylon’s personal motto could well have been, “Do it now so you won't have to do it later.” He graduated from San Fernando High School in 1967. He enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers.

Draylon was sociable and approachable. Because he was always so straightforward in how he approached relationships, friends and family knew that what they saw was always what they got. He enjoyed the camaraderie of being with a group of friends. When Draylon was a member of a group, his interaction worked to keep the others grounded. His sound judgement often made him a peacekeeper amongst friends. While growing up, some of his best friends were Donald Haylock, Gary Besse, Johnny Easterling, Emile Williams, and Johnny Coleman. Later in life, he became friends with Lester Greene.

An objective and conscientious individual, Draylon reveled in the security of his family. One of Draylon’s most endearing qualities was his uncanny ability to makes people feel special. Including his wife of 50 years, Vernette, who he married in 1971 and had 2 children with. Draylon prided himself on having a Southern wife and 2 girls. Often bringing his wife flowers home on any given day of the week and accompanying his 2 girls on shopping trips.

Draylon was ever watchful and extremely supportive of his children. He was a protective of his 2 daughters all while allowing them to pursue their dreams and aspirations. Instead of ruling with an iron fist he often chose the communication approach allowing his daughter to express themselves. Draylon would give his stamp of approval to their requests, as long as he could see how they might benefit. His ability to be loving and a good communicator allowed for his children to be properly raised. Draylon was blessed with 2 daughters., Larissa Askew and Doriska Askew.

Being a hard worker who praised efficiency, Draylon was always striving to make improvements where they were necessary. He was able to analyze situations and problems, and make changes when needed. Draylon was a person who could quickly make decisions based on the information available. He worked cooperatively and others in his presence often worked in the same manner. In both his personal and professional environments, Draylon upheld his standards and was consistent. His primary occupation was as a Bus Operator. He was employed for 17 years with the Metropolitan Transit Authority (Los Angeles). Draylon was a team player whose coworkers and passengers enjoyed his presence. He also received numerous safety and service awards while in that position.

Draylon was a U.S. Navy Veteran. His sense of duty helped lead him into the military where his understanding of rank, his willingness to abide by rules and regulations and his desire to follow orders was admired by his fellow service men and women. He served in Vietnam aboard the USS Bonhomme Richard. Draylon saw action for Vietnam and he received the Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, and National Defense Service Medal.

Draylon approached his leisure time in the same manner that he approached his life. A person who enjoyed being neat and orderly and one who understood the nature of things, he appreciated the hours he was able to devote to his various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were studying horse racing, long walks, and weight lifting. Draylon was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone as it gave him time to study and reflect.

Having a competitive nature and an eagerness to win in life carried over to his enjoyment of sports. In high school, Draylon played football. And as an adult he enjoyed weight lifting. He also was something of a sports fan and enjoyed watching his favorite events whenever he got the opportunity. Tops on his list were horse racing, football, and basketball.

When it came time to travel or taking a vacation, Draylon enjoyed wherever he went as long as his wife and “2 girls” were there. Unless it was Las Vegas the one place he could travel solo because he enjoyed gaming and was very good at it. Some of his favorite vacations included visiting Las Vegas, Nevada and Madrid, Spain.

In 2012, Draylon decided to retire. His new life involved relocating to Las Vegas, Nevada. In retirement, he found new pleasure in horse racing. In many ways, Draylon loved retirement. It provided him with the opportunity to catch up with family, friends, attend functions, make new friends and tackle new interesting activities.

Draylon passed away on July 25, 2021 at Nelson Adelson Hospice, Las Vegas, Nevada. He fought a courageous 5-year battle against Multiple Myeloma Cancer. He is survived by his wife, Vernette; daughter, Doriska; sisters: Sandra, Deborah, Charlotte, and Diane; sister-in-law, Sheila; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.

All who knew him would agree that Draylon was a pillar in the family. He lived his life with his feet firmly on the ground. He had a strong work ethic, was calculated in his thoughts and acts, and constantly sought the means for self-improvement. He was willing to share his ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others, so that they could accomplish more in their lives.

Funeral services for Draylon will be held Thursday, August 12, 2021 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Palm Boulder Highway Mortuary, 800 South Boulder Highway, Henderson, NV 89015. Following the funeral service will be a committal service from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM at Southern Nevada Veteran's Memorial Cemetery, 1900 Veteran's Memorial Drive, Boulder City, NV 89005.

Due to government regulations, all guests in attendance must wear a mask.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmboulderhighway.com for the Askew family.