James Ray Drake, 79, passed away Saturday, December 1, 2012. He was born in Edgecombe County on June 1, 1933 to the late Johnny and Nannie Pender Drake.

He is survived by his wife, Nannie Drake of the home; daughter, Helen Drake Rackley and husband Phil of Macclesfield; son, Tim Drake and wife, Connie of Rocky Mount; sister, Catherine Crisp of Nashville; brother, William Justa Drake of Rocky Mount; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

A funeral service was held Monday, December 3, 2012 at Mill Branch Primitive Baptist Church.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Home, 1130 North Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount.