Jessie Omogene “Gene” Drake, 99, of Orange, Texas, passed away on October 4, 2025, in Orange.
Born in Hamlin, Texas, on May 26, 1926, she was the daughter of Horace White and Hattie Fowler White. Gene was a beloved matriarch whose spirit and laughter filled the lives of all who knew her. Gene passed away peacefully on October 4, 2025, at the age of 99, leaving behind a cherished legacy of love, adventure, and family. After retiring from Equitable Bag Company in Orange, Gene spent many wonderful years alongside her husband, Vernon. Together, they embarked on numerous adventures, often accompanied by her sister Louise and her husband Earl. Their journeys across the country in RVs were filled with laughter and joy, creating treasured memories that their families would fondly recount for years to come. An enthusiastic player of dominos, Gene dedicated countless hours to this beloved pastime, sharing her passion for the game with her great-grandchildren. Teaching them the rules and strategies was not only a way for her to connect with them but also a testament to her unwavering commitment to family. All of her grandchildren affectionately knew her as "Big Mama," a title that exemplified the warmth and love she imparted to those around her. Gene's immense love for her family was evident in every interaction. Her kind heart and nurturing spirit left a profound impact on her loved ones, who continue to celebrate her extraordinary life and the values she instilled in them. Her memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those fortunate enough to call her family.
She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 57 years, Vernon T. Drake; her parents, Horace and Hattie White; her sister, Edna Trusdel; and her brothers, R.B., Cecil, Howard, and Billy White.
She is survived by her son, Larry Drake, his wife, Melanie of Orange; her daughter, Gayle Kamontauskas and husband, Victor of Orange; her grandchildren, Valerie Allen and husband Phil of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, Jennifer Densmore and husband, Scotty of Aledo, Tom Kamantauskas and wife, Julie of Arlington, Larry G. Drake and wife, Noreen MD. Of Grand Forks, North Dakota, Christina Farrell D.C. and husband, Matt of Mont Belvieu; 11 grreat-grandchildren with the most recent, Zayn Drake being born one month ago; her sister, Louise Johnson of Santa Fe, Texas; and numerous other loving family members and friends.
At Gene’s request, a small family graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, October 9, 2025, at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend Jeff Bell.
Her family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff of Southeast Texas Hospice in Orange for making it possible for her to remain at her home during her final days.