Scotland Neck -

Jean Davis Drake, age 78, passed away at Scotland Manor Health and Rehab, Scotland Neck, on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.  Her life began in Wilson County on August 23, 1946, as the middle child born to George and Nellie Worrell Davis.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Shirley Davis Pendergrass.  Jean is survived by her husband, Reverend James "Jimmy" Drake of Scotland Neck; sons, Daniel "Dan" Drake (Kim) of Greenville and Brandon Drake (Colleen) of Wilmington; grandchildren, Hannah, Bethany, Sarah, Matthew, Elijah, Liam, and Carolyn Drake; and brother, Phil Davis (Dawana) of Red Oak.  She leaves a lifetime of memories for those she met as God led her through the journey of a pastor's wife.  She will also be missed by her special friend, Erma Braddy, having met while serving at their first church in Hobgood, NC.

Jean was a child of God - an imperfect sinner saved by grace and a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and sister. God created her uniquely - both her personality and giftedness.  She was a shepherdess to both her sons, Danny and Brandon, while staying close to the true Shepherd. Her actions and deeds were selfless, and she never expected anything in return. Sacrificially giving of herself to help others was her second nature and she often did so by preparing meals and spending time with shut-in friends and neighbors.

As a pastor's wife, she was a co-laborer with her husband, Jim, serving alongside him in churches throughout eastern North Carolina.  She held a variety of roles, each of which she approached with dedication and grace. Jean was actively involved and engaged in the work of church, making new friends everywhere she went.

Over the last few years, Jean suffered from rheumatoid arthritis and with time, the disease began to take a toll on her health and body.  Despite the daily pain and discomfort, she never gave up and continued fighting until the time that God called her home. She is now reunited with her parents, her sister whom she dearly loved, and her Savior who dearly loved her.

A service to celebrate Jean's life will be held on Saturday, March 1, 3:00pm at Memorial Baptist Church, 5399 Old Wilson Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  The family will receive friends immediately following the service.