Joseph Conway Drake began life on September 16, 1928, born in Robbins, Illinois to John Isaac Drake and Artie See Drake (nee Green). He was the fourth of six children: Henry, Azzie Lee, Charles, then Joseph, Johnnye Mae, and Dorothy Ann. Joseph was baptized at an early age at New Friendship Missionary Baptist Church were he fellowshipped throughout his young adult years. He was a student of Lincoln Memorial Elementary School in Robbins, Illinois. Also, he attended Blue Island Community High School where he was an avid track and field runner.
In 1950, Joseph met and married Emma Drake (nee King) after a six-month courtship. Within months of the marriage, Joseph was called to serve his country. During his tour of duty, he was promoted to the role of Sergeant in the U.S. Army 293rd Engineer Construction Battalion during the Korean War. To the union of Joseph and Emma was the blessing of six children. He was a husband, father and grandfather, businessman, and loyal citizen of the country.
Affectionately known as “Joe Baby”, he was the founder and sole proprietor of several successful businesses, including the Victory, later named Robbins Cleaners, which he owned for 50 years prior to his retirement. He also owned a local grocery store and a restaurant named “Tony’s Drive-In.” He co-owned several dry cleaners in Chicago named “Brian’s Dry Cleaning.” After retirement, he worked briefly as a security guard for Satellite Security and in the position of a property manager for Divine Properties.
Joseph was active in many associations including being the past president and business manager of his beloved “Jazzy Ones Motor Club”, a brotherhood member of the Knights of Columbus, and a member of the Robbins Rod and Gun Club, as well as the Robbins Businessman Organization.
In 2001, he was recognized for being a “Man of Vision” and was awarded the Nelson Mandela Image Award. His love for fast motorcycles resulted in several trophies and awards for wining motorcycle races. His additional sport talents included golfing, bowling and baseball.
Joseph departed this earth being heavenly bound on Monday, March 15th at 1:49 p.m. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and sisters (Henry, Charles, Azzie Lee, and Johnnye Mae). He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Emma May Drake and six children: Joann Drake-Wright (Gregory), Anthony Drake (Linda), August Drake-Ericson (Michael), Yovette Drake, Mario Drake (Queen), and Shana Sewell (William), a beloved sister Dorothy Ann King (nee Drake), nine grand daughters, seven grand sons, two great-grand children, a host of nieces and nephews, cousins and life long friends.
