Ralph Waldo "Buddy" Drake, Jr.

Ralph Waldo “Buddy” Drake Jr., 84, of Frederick, Maryland, passed away on December 26, 2025. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, resilience, and quiet strength that touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born in Sheffield, Alabama, and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Buddy carried with him the values of both places - a grounded Southern kindness and a determined Midwestern spirit. As a young man, he enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving for four years. During his deployment in England, he met the love of his life, Brenda. Their connection became the foundation of a lifelong partnership. After returning to the United States, they built a home together and raised their children with devotion, humor, and unwavering support.

Buddy dedicated his professional life to communications engineering, working for IBM and Lockheed Martin. His expertise, steady work ethic, and commitment to excellence earned him the respect of colleagues and the admiration of those who learned from him.

Buddy was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Brenda; his daughters Melissa Drake, Karen Drake, and Catherine Drake; his sisters Barbara Rosell and Margarette Pross; his mother, Johnetta Buis; and his grandmother, Annie “Mama” Simmons.

He is survived by his daughter, Dawn Zimmerman (and her husband Rudy), grandchildren James Birch, Alexus Drake, Isaiah Drake, Kayla Birch, Gabriella Page, Brayden Zimmerman, Greyson Drake, and nephews Simon, Mathew, and Steve. He also leaves behind his in‑laws Kathleen Holmes and Robert Beaver, as well as his brother‑in‑law and best friend, Tom Pross, whose lifelong bond with Buddy was a constant source of strength and companionship.

Known for his gentle spirit and loyal heart, Buddy touched countless lives through his kindness, quiet wisdom, and the dignity with which he carried himself. His presence will be deeply missed, but the love he shared and the values he instilled will continue to live on through his family and all who knew him.

The family extends a special thank‑you to the staff at Village Crossing for the genuine care and comfort they provided. Buddy often said it felt like home.

The funeral service will be held on Monday, January 5th, at Stauffer’s Funeral Home, 1621 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick, MD. Viewing will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by the service at 11:00 AM. Interment will immediately follow at Glade Cemetery. Buddy will be laid to rest along with the cremations of his wife, Brenda, and his daughters Karen and Cathy Drake.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or to Hospice in Buddy’s memory.