Obituary

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Theresa Ann Drake, cherished wife, mother, and friend to many. She passed peacefully from this earth Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at 4:09 pm at St. Joseph’s Hospital, surrounded by loved ones. Theresa was born November 3, 1961 in Houston, Texas to Gladys and Leroy Sims.

Theresa was a devoted and loving wife and mother who had a beautiful heart and optimistic spirit. She had a deep and abiding walk with God, and a heart for helping people. As a fifth degree black belt with many tournament medals to be proud of, she touched hundreds of lives in her thirty years of teaching Goju-Kai Karate alongside her husband, partner, and love of her life, Shihan Thomas Drake. She had a special talent for helping young children with her kindness, empathy and strength. She managed the business side of Drake Dojo, and was also an accomplished cook, wonderful baker and talented seamstress.

Surviving her is her husband, Thomas F. Drake. They were married January 13, 1989 in Custer, Washington. They were perfectly matched and deeply connected for 36 years. She also leaves behind her beloved biological daughters Tina and Echo Hall, Sarah Brown and Melena Drake, grandchildren Nico Blotsky, Phoenix Dana, Charlotte Brown, Samantha, Lucy and Kolson McGee, as well as stepchildren Terah, Christina and Thomas Drake, and step grandchildren James and Savannah Sartain, Evalynn and Windsor Drake, Britney and Brent Drake,Tylynn and Teesin Jackson. She had three step-great grandchildren; Sébastien and Madilynn Shin and Josiah Saenz.

Theresa’s mother and father preceded her in death, as did her brother Jerry Sims and sister Darlene Sims. Still living are brothers David, Leroy, and Paul Sims. Theresa‘s passing leaves a deep void in those who survive and loved her, but they find comfort in the memories and abiding love they shared.

Theresa’s remains will be buried at Mountain View cemetery in Ferndale, Washington. The funeral and celebration of life will be private.
In Lieu of flowers, the family has established a GoFundMe to help with funeral and burial costs: https://gofund.me/05c6b2bf. Your generosity will help alleviate some of this burden and allow them to focus on healing.🙏🏻