Mary Lou Drake (Clevenger)

Mary Lou Drake, 75, of Independence, MO was called home by her Heavenly Father on Thursday, January 8, 2015. A visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 11th at Speaks Suburban Chapel. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, January 12th at the chapel. Burial will be at Oakland Cemetery, Independence, MO. Mary was born July 27, 1939 in Cameron, MO as one of ten children to Charlie W. and Eva Emeline (Hatfield) Clevenger. She graduated from Lathrop High School. She married her beloved James Dwain Drake and together they raised two children. She worked for many years in numerous administrative support positions with Bothwell Regional Health Center of Sedalia, MO and Independence Regional before retirement in 1999. Mary was an active member of Sycamore Hills Baptist Church for over 20 years. Her children, grandchildren, and family were most important to her. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She is remembered for her optimistic outlook on life, her spunky demeanor, and her knack for taking care of everyone. Mary is loved and will be missed.
Survivors include husband, James D. Drake of the home; son, Bryan Drake (Chris) of Chicago, IL; daughter, Kimberly Parrish (Don) of Blue Springs, MO; grandchildren, Tyler Parrish (Kristy); Trevor Parrish; and Taylor Parrish; sisters, Betty Baldridge, Margaret Slover and Scharleen Witt; brother, Bill Clevenger; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by siblings, Agnes Hames, Hazel Rickart, Charles Clevenger, Ernest Clevenger, and Opal Fraizer. The family encourages contributions to Sycamore Hills Baptist Church, Building Fund, in her memory; 15200 E 39th St., Independence, MO 64055. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel 816-373-3600)