Frances "Fran" Cora Drake

Of Jackson, Michigan passed away on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the age of 89. Fran was born in Jackson, Michigan on June 22, 1935, to parents Walt and Nellie Armstrong.

Fran was adopted and raised by Elmer and Hazel (her biological aunt) Hyter. They relocated to Detroit but later moved back to Jackson where Fran attended Vandercook Lake Schools. As a teenager, Fran worked at the local Weatherwax Drug Store of which she had many fond memories. Fran met Bud Drake who lived nearby. They grew to love each other and married at a young age. After raising their six children, Fran found various jobs, before being employed by Jacobson’s Department Store in the warehouse receiving department. Fran loved reading, crossword puzzles, upholstery and traveling with her husband Bud around Michigan and Florida.

Fran is survived by her children Cynthia (John) Swartwood, Karen Drake-Sajdak, Carl “Gene” (Susan) Drake, Leslie (Susan) Drake, Brian (Kathy) Drake and Dennis (Nancy) Drake; thirteen grandchildren; seventeen great grandchildren; seven great-great grandchildren; sister Phillis Mott; and a host of nieces, nephews, and loving family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband of 70 years Carl LaVern “Bud” Drake, sister Norma Jackson, brothers Harvey Fuller and David Edwards, son-in-law Bruce Sajdak.

Per Fran’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a celebration of Fran’s life will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025, at Burden & Patience-Montgomery Funeral Home at 2:00PM with visitation from 1:00 PM until time of service.