Beech Tree News Network

James Roger Drake, age 93 of Valparaiso, IN passed away Saturday, April 18, 2026 at his residence. Roger was born on October 25, 1932 to the late McKinley Oliver and Ivy Elizabeth (nee Pendley) Drake. He was a United States Navy Veteran and a retired Steelworker for Inland Steel. Roger enjoyed fishing, nature and being outdoors. Other than his parents he is preceded in death by six brothers; Oliver, Phillip, Ruby, Robert, Cecil and Neil Drake.

James Roger Drake is survived by his wife of over 65 years, Patsy Jean (nee Garrison) Drake of Valparaiso, IN, two Daughters; Fellica Jean Bender of Dallas, TX and Jamie Rachelle Robinson (Richard) of Louisville, KY, one sister, Louise Drake Proctor of Morgantown, KY and three grandchildren; Joshua Drake Underwood, Hayden Drake Bender and Hanna Elizabeth Bender and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Friday, April 24, 2026 at the Jones Funeral Chapel at 12:00pm with burial to follow in the Bethel Cemetery. Visitation will be held Friday, April 24, 2026 from 10:00am until funeral time at 12:00pm at the Jones Funeral Chapel. Please share any photos, memories, condolences or to light a candle in memory of Roger, please visit www.jonesfuneralchapel.com. The Jones Funeral Chapel is honored to be serving the family of James Roger Drake.