Almond, New York
Gerald L. “Jerry” Drake – 77 – of County Rd #2, Almond, NY, died unexpectedly early Monday morning (December 8, 2028) at his home, following a long illness.
Born in Hornell on December 13, 1947, he was the son of Lavern Drake and Wilma (Mullen) Drake Root and the step-son of Theodore “Ted” Root.
Jerry grew up in Almond and was a graduate of Alfred-Almond Central School (class of 1967). Following high school graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served his country during the Vietnam era. Throughout the years he was stationed in many locations, including Texas (Basic Training), New Jersey and eventually Vietnam. After returning from Vietnam, he was stationed in South Carolina, Okinawa, Idaho, Germany, Massachusetts, New Mexico and finally returning to Almond, NY. Jerry was honorably discharged in 1987 with the rank of Tech Sergeant (TSGT) following a 20 year military career. From 1987 – 1993, Jerry served as a furnace technician for Agway, cleaning & repairing furnaces.
He was a member of the Hornell American Legion and a life member of the Hornell VFW. Jerry was a former Pittsburg Steelers fan but currently loved rooting for the Buffalo Bills. Jerry also was a NASCAR entheusiest with his favorite driver being Kevin Harvick. He also enjoyed taking his mother to the local casinos.
He was married on July 5, 1969 to the former Kathleen “Kathy” Sweeney who survives. Also surviving are his son, Paul Edward (Terri) Drake of Silver Springs, FL; his daughter, Mary Bess Clark of Almond; his brother, Guy Drake of Wellsville; his step-sister, Terri Jean Root Jackson of Olathe, KS; his grandchildren, Cody (Christina Canniff) Clark, Hunter Clark, Nicholas (Katie Sirianni) Clark, Paul Drake, Jr., Jamie (Josh) Knight and Racheal Clayton; 8 great-grandchildren; several nieces & nephews.
In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his brother, T. Donald Root, Jr. and his sister-in-law, Eileen Drake.
At Jerry’s request there will be no calling hours. A private graveside service with military honors will be held at the convenience of the family.
Family & friends are invited to a “Celebration of Life” to be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the Hornell VFW, Canisteo St., Hornell, NY. All are welcome to attend and share stories and memories of Jerry.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Jerry’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.