Oather E. Drake

Oather E. Drake, 99 of Monaville, WV departed this life on Sunday, February 6th, 2022 at his residence. He was born on April 12th, 1922 in Logan, WV to the late Opie and Delphia (Nester) Drake. Oather was a mining engineer for Island Creek Coal and Pittson Coal, and he was one of the two licensed surveyors in Logan county. He was in the U.S. Navy and served in World War II, and he was a member of the Chapmanville Church of Christ. His hobbies include woodworking, bowling, arm wrestling, reading, teaching his grandchildren about history, feeding his birds and squirrels, and chasing his granddaughter Lexi around.

In addition to his parents he is proceeded in death by one daughter, Linda Kurtz; two sisters, Lola Walls and Jessie Accord; three brothers, Quincy Drake, Bethel Drake, Maxwell Drake; three grandchildren.

Those left to cherish his memories are his loving wife of 53 years, his best friend, caretaker, who stood by his side until the end. Helen “June Bug” Drake; one son, Eddie Avis; seven daughters, Melissa (Jarrell) Drake-Plumley, Brenda Gish, Donna Wisdo, Nancy Scheller, Darlene (Roy) Justice, Becky (Mike) Jude, Sharon (Raymond) White; one sister, Ann “Toots” Vickers; one very special grandson whom he thought of as a son, Tom (Cindy) Miller; three precious grandchildren, Dylan, Kylee, and Lexi June who were great blessings to both Oather and Helen; two special friends, Bill Waybright and Farron Doss; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

The family is honoring Oathers request to have a private graveside service with Minister Johnny Steele officiating. Honorary pallbearers and pallbearers will include Jarrell Plumley, Dylan Plumley, Roy Justice, Mike Jude, Raymond White, Eddie Avis, Paul Topping, Eric Lee, Tom Miller, Joe Hatcher, and Bill Waybright. In his memory the family asks if contributions are made, to be made to the Chapmanville Church of Christ.

Collins Funeral Home Inc. is assisting the family with arrangements.

To plant memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Oather Drake, please visit our flower store.

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My Dad, Dan Carnal, worked with Oather at Island Creek.Condolences to your family.

Robert Carnal Mar 11 2022 4:38 AM

We are so very sorry for your loss!

Gary & Chris Sawyers Feb 17 2022 10:25 AM

A candle was lit in memory of Oather Drake

Donna Wisdo Feb 9 2022 9:15 PM

Love ❤️ you Daddy

Nancy Scheller Feb 9 2022 6:30 PM

A candle was lit in memory of Oather Drake

Nancy Scheller Feb 9 2022 6:29 PM

Oather was a great American. He was a good family man, a good friend. To me he was a walking history book. Had a good mind till the end. So blessed to know him. Rest In Peace my friend.
John Steele

John Steele Feb 9 2022 11:22 AM

My Dad , Bob Long , worked with Oather at both Island Creek and Pittston Coal Companies. He thought a great deal , and spoke of him often. He considered him a good friend. My condolences to his wife Helen and the family.

Jim Long Feb 9 2022 10:39 AM

Oather will be missed by many, especially his immediate family. The last time I spoke with him was his Birthday. I'm sure he is in a much better place now! Jim Acord Jessie & John Acord's son. Rest in Peace!

jimmie d acord Feb 9 2022 8:39 AM

The colonel was just one of those people that made an impression!! I was blessed to enjoy lively discussions on just about everything!! Till we meet again!

Doris Feb 8 2022 7:07 PM

Although I only met you a couple times I know how much you were loved by the family! I'm one of Donna's grandchildren and I know how much she loved her Daddy! You will truly be missed 🕊

Crystal ❤️ Feb 8 2022 6:50 PM

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