Della M. Drake's Obituary
Della M. Drake, age 80, met her Heavenly Father on Monday, May 13, 2024, at home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on April 27, 1944, to Van and Lizzie Diggs Sr. in Mississippi. In the early 1970’s she made her way to Muskegon, which has been home ever since. She married the love of her life, Joe L. Drake, and together they cherished 34 years full of love and laughter. She was a faithful member of New Beginning Life Center, where she attended with her son, Robert. Della was a supportive wife and homemaker, taking pride in her home and raising her six children. She was a devoted mom and loved nourishing her family with homecooked meals. Della also enjoyed spending her time putting together puzzles. Above all, she truly loved spending time with her family, especially her grand and great grandbabies. Della will always be remembered as a loving mother, doting grandma and great-grandma, amazing sister and aunt, and dear friend to so many. Her tender-loving and kind spirit will be missed by many. Della is survived by her six children, Robert (Angela) Diggs, Tishena Drake, Douglas Diggs, Patricia Diggs, Michael Diggs and Karsandra (Mario) Wesley; 21 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; three sisters, Velma (Joe Willie) Willis, Bettie Henderson and Mary (Arthur) Webster; three brothers, Charles (Rosie) Diggs, Willie Diggs and William Diggs; special niece, Gelinda Diggs; bonus daughter, Latasha German; and a host of cousins, nephews, nieces and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; loving husband, Joe Drake; three brothers, Thomas Diggs, Edward Diggs and Van Diggs Jr.; sister, Flora Davis; and two grandchildren, Henry Mason and Jamal Houston. A Homegoing will be held at 12:00PM on Monday, May 20, 2024, at Our Father’s Church, 473 E. Laketon Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442. A visitation will be held from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the church. Arrangements entrusted to The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 737 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Della?
What’s a lesson you learned from Della?
Share a story where Della's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Della you’ll never forget.
How did Della make you smile?