Gayle Eason Drake, born March 19, 1941, in Port Arthur, Texas, passed peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. He was the son of Lemuel Eason Drake and Ardell Ratcliff Drake, who welcomed him into heaven with open arms.
A proud American and dedicated soldier, Gayle served a total of 12½ years in the U.S. military. He began his service in the United States Army and later continued in the National Guard and Reserves, where he rose to the rank of First Lieutenant. His time in uniform shaped the leadership, discipline, and strong moral character he carried throughout his life.
Gayle spent over 45 years in the industrial and milling parts and supplies business, building lifelong relationships and a reputation for honesty, expertise, and reliability. His work ethic was unmatched and deeply respected by everyone who knew him.
He was a man of many passions and loved hunting, fishing, driving, and building muscle cars. He made sure every one of his children and grandchildren had a firearm and knew how to handle it safely. One of his most cherished traditions was taking his daughter Angie to Llano, Texas every November, beginning when she was only seven years old, to hunt whitetail deer and turkey—trips they remembered together with deep fondness.
Gayle was a devout Christian who encouraged his children to read the Bible, follow its teachings, and seek wisdom in all things. He believed that education was one of life’s greatest assets and was always eager to learn. He had a brilliant mind and seemed to always have the answer, no matter the question.
He is survived by his children, Kimberly Fury and husband Paul, Angela Hamilton and life partner Jeff, Tara Augenstein and husband Bret, and Mark Drake; and by his grandchildren, Jocelyn, Chase, Ksenia, Isaac, Georgia, and Stephan Fury; Morgan Ellis; Damon Hamilton; Drake and Taylor Jenkins.
Visitation is scheduled for Tuesday at Dorman Riley Smith and Sons from 5pm-7pm with Funeral services held Wednesday, January 28 beginning at 1pm also at Dorman’s–Riley Smith & Sons Funeral Home in Orange, Texas, followed by a graveside service and military honors at Williamson Cemetery on Highway 105 in Vidor, Texas. The family extends heartfelt thanks to his caregivers and Gentiva hospice team for their compassion and loving care during his final days. Flower arrangements thoughtfully created by Sherry Cooley.
We find comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, rejoicing in the presence of his Lord and Savior. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
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