Barbara Anne Drake Obituary

Barbara Drake, a beacon of creativity and passion, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on June 1, 1934, in Chicago, IL, Barbara's life was a canvas of love, art, and spirited dedication to her family and work.

Barbara's early years in Chicago were filled with the bustling energy of the city, which fueled her imaginative spirit. This vibrancy was reflected in her later years as she channeled her creative energy into her paintings. Her artwork, known for its bold colors and emotional depth, brought joy and contemplation to all who viewed it.

Barbara's professional life was spent enriching the world of literature through her long-standing career at AKG Publishing. Her keen eye for detail and unwavering commitment to excellence left an indelible mark on the publishing industry. Her colleagues remember her as a mentor who provided guidance with kindness and encouragement, fostering a warm and productive work environment.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Barbara was a woman of incredible warmth and love, deeply devoted to her family. She is survived by her son, Jesse Drake, and his life companion, Anna DeMattio. Barbara's loving grandchildren Jennifer Drake, Cassandra Buser and husband Christopher and Dustin Drake, who will remember her as the family's cornerstone, always offering a listening ear and a heart full of understanding. Also survived by her cherished great-grandson young Maximus..

Though predeceased by her husband, Russell, her daughter-in-law, Susan, and her sister, Gerri, Barbara's legacy of love and creativity continues to live on in the hearts of her family and all who knew her. Her grandchildren will carry forward her artistic passion, each having been touched by her creative spirit and encouraged to pursue their own dreams with the same fervor that she did.

Barbara's life was a testament to the power of living with a passionate and spirited heart. She approached every day with a zest for life that was contagious, often reminding those around her to cherish the beauty in the mundane and to always seek out the silver linings. Her laughter was a melody that set the rhythm for joyful family gatherings, and her presence was a comfort that will be dearly missed.

As we say goodbye to Barbara Drake, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest, marked by an unquenchable creative fire and a love that knew no bounds. Her story is one of inspiration, a reminder to all of us that life is a canvas waiting to be painted with the vibrant colors of our experiences and dreams. Barbara's journey may have come to a close, but her spirit will continue to guide us, like a lighthouse of creativity and love on the shore of our memories.

A memorial visitation will be held to honor Barbara on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at at Cargain Funeral Home, 10 Fowler Avenue, Carmel, NY.

During the visitation, there will be a celebration of life service at 2:30 PM

At a future date, Barbara will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband, Russell (2015) at Milltown Rural Cemetery in Brewster, NY.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Cargain Funeral Homes, Inc., 10 Fowler Avenue, Carmel, NY 10512, 845-225-3672, www.cargainfuneralhomes.com.

We at Cargain Funeral Homes, Inc. are deeply committed to responsibly responding to the health, well-being, and needs of the families, guests and communities we are privileged to serve.