James R. Drake, Jr.

James Richard Drake, Jr., age 65, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at Arnot Odgen Medical Center. James was born in Montour Falls on May 4, 1961 to the late James R. and Lois (Dean) Drake, Sr.

James grew up in Odessa, NY and graduated from Odessa-Montour Central School with the Class of 1980. He worked as a delivery driver for NAPA Auto Parts in Horseheads, NY. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially when the youngsters were around. Fishing was his favorite pastime, and he was an avid Yankees baseball fan. James always had a canine companion, and most recently had a cat to love and spoil.

James was predeceased by his parents; a sister, Tammi L. Peterson; and a great-nephew, Colson J. Thompson.

He is survived by his sister, Wendy (Steve) Weber; brother, Michael (Elaine) Drake; brother-in-law, Ken Peterson; nieces, Megan (Ryan) Thompson, Ella Drake and Andrea Catolfano; nephews, Kevin (Mindy) Weber, Matthew Peterson and Hunter Hood; great-nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly and enjoyed spoiling with sweet treats, Paige Weber, Mallory Weber, Kase Thompson, and Clara Thompson.