Drake William Hoops

Drake Hoops was a friend to all and an enemy to no one. He always spoke with a warm, sincere smile. Drake was known for his dedication to his beloved family and for his strong faith. He was an extremely active and involved father to his children Harrison and Hayden, as well as a loving and devoted husband for 22 years to his wife Stephanie. While the Hoops family were members of Peachtree Road United Methodist Church, Drake served on the Administrative Board, taught both adult and children’s Sunday School and Disciple Bible Study, annually participated in the Great Day of Service, as well as many other church events. As a member of Roswell Presbyterian Church, Drake continued to be an active church member also teaching Sunday School, participating in many church activities and serving wherever he found needs. Drake’s friends at both church homes were very special to him.

Drake was employed at Meadows & Ohly healthcare real estate firm in Norcross, GA for 11 years. Drake considered Meadows & Ohly one of his greatest blessings. The people with whom he worked were like family to him.

Family was Drake’s priority. Born April 30, 1966 in Muncie, IN to Helen and Dick Hoops, Drake graduated from Muncie Central High School in 1985, and Miami University of Ohio in 1989. Drake was the third of four children in a very close-knit family. His beloved parents, his sister Keriann and her husband David, brother Mark and his wife June, brother Kent and his wife Beverly, were always close to his heart, along with his nieces and nephews. He loved them all very, very much. Going back home for vacations or holidays was such a joy to Drake and visits were never long enough.

Drake’s family through marriage, Joan and Bomar Ingram, Allison and Cass Scripps, John and Melinda Ingram and all their children were also very loved by Drake and close to his heart. He looked forward to family trips together, sharing holidays with them all and large family reunions.

The highest priority in Drake’s life remained the love of his life, Stephanie, and his pride and joy, Harrison and Hayden. Drake took great pride in raising a fine, handsome son and beautiful, sweet daughter. He encouraged, supported, and actively participated in all of their activities. He especially loved coaching many of Harrison’s baseball teams and leading Cub Scouts for many years. Their family trip to Cooperstown was a true highlight in his life. He coached Hayden’s basketball team and loved cheering for her at soccer games and swim team competitions. Drake never missed an opportunity to support his children in all of their endeavors.

Both Harrison and Hayden said that their Dad was the best father anyone could ask for.

Harrison said he was committed to their family, he was dedicated to his faith even throughout his illness and was the foundation of their family’s faith. He went through life with one motto: God first, then family. His dad was a humble person and put others before himself. He knew God had a plan. Harrison said most people who met his dad remembered him for his courtesy and generosity.

Hayden remembers the strong faith her dad had all of his life. She said her dad never complained or lost his faith. He was an amazing father, person and role model. He always held his head high and welcomed others with open arms. He was friendly to everyone and always had a smile on his face.

Drake loved sports. He especially loved to watch Alabama football games and Atlanta Braves baseball games with his family. Drake was a golfer, tennis player and skilled water skier. He was a runner who enjoyed participating in the Peachtree Road Race, and was proud to have completed the Chicago marathon.

Drake was diagnosed with kidney cancer eight years ago and fought hard to win the battle. On Tuesday, May 20, 2014, Drake made his final journey home to his Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer. Drake was a man of true, unending faith.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

2 Timothy 4:7