Thomas H. Drake, age 81, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, May 15, 2017 at 4:20 p.m. at his residence in Kenton, Ohio.

          He was born on April 21, 1936 in Bellefontaine, Ohio to Jeremiah and Minnie (Shields) Drake who preceded him in death. On August 6, 1966 Thomas married Ella Jean Mullins and she preceded him in death on February 20, 2008.

          Thomas retired from Rockwell International, where he worked as a welder. He was a member of the First Church of God, Bellefontaine. He was a graduate of Belle Center High School. Thomas enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, and farming. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family.

          He is survived by a son, John (Diana) Drake of Bellefontaine; two daughters: Pamela (Terry) Barker of Circleville and Theresa Navas of Kenton; eight grandchildren and ten great grandchildren; and a sister, Lilly Fryling of Bellefontaine.

          He was preceded in death by a daughter, Vicki Drake in 2013; and two brothers: Arlyn Drake and Howard Drake.

          Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 20, at First Church of God, 1000 East Brown Avenue, Bellefontaine, Ohio 43311 with Pastor Gary Brown officiating. Burial will be in Preston Cemetery, Alger.

          Friends may call from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, May 19, at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Alger and one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday.

          In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Universal Home Health & Hospice, Kenton and Bellefontaine