Elizabeth Triplett Drake

Hanna Elizabeth Drake was born in Whitney, Texas to Weldon and Frances Triplett. She graduated from Whitney High School in 1953 and later graduated from North Texas State University in 1957. She married Kenneth D. Reed and began her family in Houston, Texas. She grew up a farm girl, but Houston was a young vibrant city where anything was possible. She worked for Humble Oil briefly before becoming a full time Mom. After Kenneth passed away in 1978, she put her head down and reentered the work force as a travel agent for Dresser Industries. This was not surprising. She went through life with her glass half full and handled even the biggest challenges head on. She met and married a wonderful gentleman, Dennis Drake, who also had three children of his own. After putting six kids through college, she and Dennis enjoyed life to its fullest. They loved traveling and spending time with friends and family.

Friendships were an essential part of her life.. She is survived by dear friends Joretta Bryan, Lois Lane, Joanne Cone, and Judy Stipp. Hazel Arnic was her close friend and a steadfast presence in her life. She was still making friends at 89 years old, including Dee Holbrook, her friend and neighbor. She and Dee walked down to lunch everyday always in full fashion with their hair and make up perfectly in place.

Surviving children are Kenneth Manning Reed, Rhona Daneil Reed and wife Amy Cassidy, and Weldon Chad Reed. Grandchildren are Hannah Whitney Reed and Jordan Cassidy Reed. Stepchildren are David Drake and wife Karen with their children Jessica and Cory. Aaron Drake and wife Leanne with their children Carson and Scott. Allison Doyle and husband Frank Doyle with their children, Morgan, Ryan, and Griffin. She is survived by six great grandchildren.

Elizabeth, known as “Honey” to her grandchildren, lived a long, meaningful and happy life. Her children and grandchildren brought immeasurable joy to her life. They were by her side providing the same love and care that she had given them for so many years. Throughout her life the love she gave family and friends was unconditional. Despite only being 5 feet tall her huge presence in life will be greatly missed. We love you Honey.