Obituary of Susie Drake

Susan Leigh Drake (née Heers) 1949 – 2025 Susan Leigh Drake, 76, of South Canisteo, NY, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 20, 2025 surrounded by family. Born and raised in Hornell, New York, Susan—known affectionately as Susie—lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service. Susie was born on February 13, 1949 to the late Harold and Audrey Heers. Susie dedicated her professional life to secretarial work, spending many fulfilling years at Alfred University and both campuses of Alfred State College. She especially cherished her time with the Culinary Arts program in Wellsville, where her warmth and dedication left a lasting impression. Her commitment to her community and church was unwavering. She led youth choirs, organized vacation Bible schools, and sang in parish choirs, always sharing her love of music and faith. Beyond the church walls, Susie supported local athletics, participated in community choruses, exercise group, and annual 5K fundraiser for the Woodhull Food Pantry. Susie found joy in playing the piano and creating beautiful stained glass pieces, which she gifted to friends and family. Life on the Drake Homestead was where Susie truly thrived. She embraced farm life with joy—fixing fences, cutting (& burning) firewood, unloading hay—and was especially proud of her success during deer season. In 1977, she and her beloved husband Marvin, whom she married on May 10, 1969, literally built their home together, raising three children: Allen (Julie), Andrew (Melissa), and Aubre (Peter). She also welcomed Mattias Westin, an exchange student from Sweden, into their home and hearts, forever considering him her “fourth kid.” Susie’s creativity and vision shaped the homestead into a haven, complete with a peaceful pond, a she-shed for four-wheelers, and vibrant flower beds. Her strong faith, candid wisdom, and infectious laughter made her a pillar of strength and joy for all who knew her. She is survived by her husband Marvin; her children and their spouses; six beloved grandchildren; and her siblings: Rick (Judy) Heers, Darryl (Pat) Heers, Sandy (Bill) Hall, Debbie (Larry) Gluck, and David Heers. She was predeceased by her brother Roger (Betty). Susie also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends. Friends may call on Saturday, August 23 from 10 to 11 am at the Community Church of Woodhull, W. Main St. Woodhull, NY. A memorial service will follow there at 11 am with Pastor Brian Diffenbacher officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Foodbanks of Steuben County or Family Life Ministries at www.familylife.org/donate. Susie believed deeply in the power of community and compassion. She would have felt that your time spent volunteering, supporting neighbors, or lending a helping hand is just as valuable as any monetary gift—a true reflection of the life she lived and the love she gave. Arrangements are with the H.P. Smith & Son Funeral Home in Woodhull.