William "Bill" Chester Drake

William “Bill” Chester Drake, 93, of Knightstown passed away Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at Henry Community Health.  He was born May 17, 1930 in Cromwell, KY to the late Chester W. and Iva (Renfrow) Drake.

He retired from Jefferson-Smurfit Paper Mill in Carthage at the age of 62 after 40 years of service.  He attended the Shirley United Methodist Church.  Bill enjoyed traveling, working in the yard and especially his garden.

He is survived by his companion, Patty Hutson; children, Patricia (Mike) Ripberger, Tommy (Jayan) Drake, Connie (Randy) Brown, Neenah (Toney) Spiker and Beverly Groce; grandchildren, Michael Ripberger, Jennifer Bond, Chris McDonald, Rachel Turpin, Jason McDonald, Liz Douglas, Jeremy Drake, Ashley Douglas, Joshua Groce, Shelby Hall, Whitney Atkinson and Michalah Davidson; 23 great-grandchildren and 9 great-great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie Drake; granddaughter, Alicia Groce; grandson, Casey McDonald; great-grandson, Aaron McDonald; and sister, DeLois Smith. 

Per Bill’s wishes, there will be no public services held at this time. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Burial will be at Glen Cove Cemetery. You may express condolences or share a memory of Bill at www.hinsey-brown.com.