Mary Drake

MARY DRAKE, a veteran fundraiser, has died at the age of 92. Mary, who lived in Chelmsford, Essex, was involved in establishing the Friends of Blesma more than 47 years ago, and raised more than £100,000 for the Association throughout her lifetime. Mary’s connection to the Armed Forces began just before the outbreak of WWII, when she joined the Women’s Air Training Corps. Mary met Lancaster Bomber Rear Gunner Albert Drake at a dance, and was married to him for 65 years before he passed away in 2012.

The couple spent 50 years raising money for Blesma at events across the country. In 2016, Mary was recognised by the Association for her selfless work by being given the Cyril Stephens Award (above). Mary was well known in her local community for her kindness and faith. Her devotion to a cause was evident, even on the day she was admitted to hospital, when she worried that being there meant she wouldn’t attend a fundraising event. Mary leaves behind a son, Kelvin, three grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and her sister, Alice.