Drake, Elizabeth (Betty) Jean

The Drake family wishes to announce that Betty passed away at the Stratford General Hospital on Monday January 19, 2015. Betty was born January 10, 1929 at home on Water St in Stratford, the daughter of the late Matthew and Jessie (Montgomery) Thomson. Her older brother Hugh A. Thomson predeceased her in 2008. After her graduation from the University of Western Ontario, Betty worked briefly at Bell Canada, and married Ross Drake, celebrating 50 years of marriage before his death in 2005. Throughout her life, Betty eagerly participated in golf and curling, and was recognized by the UWO Women’s Athletic Alumnae for her achievements in tennis and badminton.  Betty was a charter member of the Stratford chapter of CFUW Canadian Federation of University Women. Betty was an avid bridge player, and enjoyed helping others learn the game. She looked forward to lively debates at philosophy group, and spent many pleasurable hours with friends at quilting, knitting, and book clubs. Until her recent hospital stay, Betty remained actively employed by Drake & Drake Management. Betty is survived by her children Dr. Thomas and Dorothy Drake, Dr. David and Catherine Drake, and Sarah Drake. She was the much-loved grandmother of Anna, Emily and Elizabeth Drake, Rachel, James and Edward Drake, and Alexander and Cameron Lynn.  Predeceased by sisters-in-law Phyllis (Peg Godwin) Thomson, Ruth (Drake) Mulholland, and brother-in-law Glen Drake, Betty will be missed by brother-in-law Don Mulholland in Sault Ste Marie, by sister-in-law Leona Thomson of Elmira, Kaye Diehl, and by her nieces, nephews  and their  families. The family will receive friends at the James A. Rutherford Funeral Home, 156 Albert St., Stratford on Saturday January 24 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm, with a funeral to be held at Knox Presbyterian Church, 142 Ontario St Stratford on Sunday January 25 at 2 pm. As expressions of sympathy memorial donations may be made to Knox Presbyterian Church, Stratford, or a charity of one’s choice through the funeral home at 519-271-5062. www.jarfh.com