Sheila Howard Drake, a lifelong Cullman County resident, died peacefully at her home surrounded by her family on June 23, 2020 following a courageous battle with cancer.
Sheila was born on November 30, 1950 to Byron Howard and Ellen Noble Howard. She graduated from Holly Pond High School in 1969. She loved each of her classmates. The ladies with whom she graduated became lifelong friends.
Known for her warm Southern hospitality and fabulous food, she loved hosting family and friends. Sheila was a lady that accepted everyone with open-loving arms, no matter their past. Her life was one well lived full of laughter and unconditional love. Her love and support made her the rock of the family and in the lives of so many people. Sheila loved nature, gardening, cooking, coffee, and anything chocolate or pumpkin spice. A passion of hers was reading history publication and family genealogy. She was a cradle member of Center Point Baptist Church.
Sheila was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Mary Jo Howard; and nephew, Jason Howard.
Survivors include loving children, Chris Drake (April), Josh Drake (Hayley), and Stacey Drake Smith (Brian). She was most proud of her beloved grandchildren, Landon Hunter, Branson Hunter, Tucker Drake, Trent Smith, Johannah Drake, and Javier Figueroa; siblings, Doris Leathers and Mark Howard (Debbie); and many nieces and nephews. Her greatest joy was spending time with those who called her Mimi.
Visitation will be held at Center Point Baptist Church on Saturday, June 27th, from 5 until 7 p.m. The funeral service will be in the church on Sunday, June 28th, at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Albert Dean Estes, Rev. Cliff Cook, and Bro. Josh Drake officiating. Burial will be in the adjoining cemetery.
The family is grateful to the many friends, family, and neighbors for their prayers, thoughts, cards, and meals they have provided during the past difficult months. Also, to the nurses and caregivers of Comfort Care Hospice and Home Health.
Floral arrangements should be delivered to Center Point Baptist Church, 1584 County Road 1650, Cullman, AL 35058. Memorials may be mailed to Center Point Baptist Church.
