Kristie Cook Drake, age 43 of Orange Beach, Alabama, passed away August 6, 2023 at South Baldwin Regional Medical in Foley, Alabama. Services will be held on Thursday, August 10, 2023 at 2:00 pm at Greensboro Baptist Church with Rev. Dee McGuire and Rev. Carl Williams officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Wood Cemetery in Greensboro. Magnolia Chapel South is directing.
She is preceded in death by her paternal grandparents; Willa Dean and Oliver W. Cook, maternal grandparents; Mary Una and Clarence Creel, brother; Tyler James Cook, aunt; Carol Cook Leavelle, and cousin; DeShay Hardy Harless.
Survivors include her husband Dennis Drake, daughter; Abigail Grace Drake, sons; Tyler Alpheus Drake, James Dawson Drake, and Avery Creel Drake, brother; Bradley Cook and (his wife Amanda and their children Brier Adelaide and James Oliver Cook), her parents; James Darrell and Sibyle Creel Cook, sister-in-law; Jessica Lee (Jeffery), nephews; Tytan and Holden Lee, aunts and uncles; Jerry and Dina Pow, Wade and Sara Cook, Horace and Sue Hardy, Kenneth and Paula Cook, Kenny and Lori Leavelle, Nancy Robertson and a host of cousins.
Kristie was born on August 22, 1979, and raised in the close-knit community of the Valley in Hale County. Surrounded by loving friends and family, Kristie’s early years were filled with warmth and joy, setting the foundation for the remarkable women she would become. After graduating from Hale County High School in 1997, Kristie pursued her academic aspirations, earning both a Bachelor’s of Science and a Master’s degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from the University of West Alabama. Passionate about teaching, Kristie spent a decade as a dedicated classroom teacher, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of her students.
In the pursuit of her desire to raise her children with love and devotion, Kristie took time away from the classroom. As a mother, she poured her heart into nurturing and guiding her children, instilling in them the same values of compassion and faith that defined her own life.
As fate would have it , Kristie’s passion for education led her back to the field, this time as a pre-K coach with the Alabama Department of Early Childhood and later as an Education Specialist with the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education. In this role, she touched the lives of countless children and teachers, leaving behind a legacy that will continue for generations to come.
Kristie’s spiritual journey was an integral part of her life. As a devoted servant of God , she exemplified her faith through her actions and ministries. Recognizing her gift for leading others to Christ, she pursued further education at the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, where she obtained a degree in Women’s Ministry. Kristie’s commitment to her faith was evident in everything she did.
In addition to her academic achievements, Kristie was a driving force in various women’s ministry conferences, and shared her profound passion for Christ with those around her on a daily basis.
Kristie and Dennis found a spiritual home at Greensboro Baptist Church. With the embrace of their church community, they found support, love, and the shared journey of faith that strengthened both their marriage and relationship with God.
Kristie Cook Drake’s life was one lived with purpose, love, and unwavering devotion to her faith. Her legacy will forever shine as a light, guiding all who knew her to lead a life of compassion, kindness, and love for others. She leaves behind cherished memories that will be treasured by family, friends, and all who crossed her path.
As we bid farewell to Kristie, let us take comfort in knowing that her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those she loved and inspired. May her memory be a blessing, and may her soul find eternal peace in te loving embrace of her Creator. Pallbearers will be Bradley Cook, Chris Cook, Lawson Cook, Kevin Cook, DeWayne Hardy, Brandon Leavelle, Tytan Lee, Holden Lee, Chris Crawford, and Seph Lee.
Honorary pallbearers are all medical staff, Orange Beach Community, and all family and friends. In honor of Kristie’s passion for her children’s education a college fund has been established. Donations can be mailed directly to Dennis Drake at 4626 Starboard Lane, Orange Beach, AL 36561
