Jesse Drake

Jesse Henry Drake was born on March 13, 1925 in Whitewright, Texas and passed away peacefully in Bedford, Texas on March 2, 2012, just short of his 87th birthday. Jesse grew up in South Dallas as the second youngest child of a large family, all of whom he outlived. His family was in the auto repair business, and Jesse learned how to repair cars at an early age, a skill that he retained his entire life. His mechanical skills went beyond automobiles, inasmuch as he had a gift for “fixing things” and was self-taught in the areas of carpentry and other practical arts.

After graduating from Forest Avenue High School, Jesse served in the United States Marine Corps during World War II and was honorably discharged with the rank of Corporal. After the war, he attended Austin College and East Texas Baptist University, where he was a starting quarterback on the football team. Jesse’s football career at ETBU was so distinguished that he was later inducted into their Athletic Hall of Fame.

After earning his bachelor’s degree at ETBU, Jesse received his master’s degree from Hardin Simmons University and, eventually, his Doctor of Philosophy from the University of North Texas. He had a long career teaching English in the public schools of Dallas and at El Centro College.

Jesse was a member of the Church of Christ. He is survived by his wife June; sons David, William, John, and Paul, and their wives; seven grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren. He will be laid to rest in Grove Hill cemetery near his parents and siblings.