Ethel

Drakeford

Ethel Starke Drakeford, daughter of the late Nick and Ursula Starke was born on October 28,1922 in Dolphin, Va. She was the fourth of ten children, eight of them preceded her in death. She departed this life on February 2, 2021 and is now in the caring hands of our Lord.

Ethel attended the Brunswick County School System in Virginia. She joined the Olive Branch RZUA Church in Dolphin,Virginia at an early age where she received her first religious training.

In 1942, Ethel joined the Ebenezer Baptist Church in New Jersey and remained an active member for many years. She served on the usher board, flower club and was a deaconess.

In 1948, Ethel married the late Randolph Hairston. From this union one child was born, Donald Winthorp Hairston.

Ethel married the late Deacon James Drakeford in 1985 and became a member of the Eastern Stars Prince Hall of Englewood, New Jersey.

Ethel worked for Hazel Bishop for years, the Department of Defense and did domestic work. She enjoyed traveling and spending time with family and friends.

In her later years, Ethel relocated to Baltimore, Maryland to be near her sister. In Baltimore, she joined the Southern Baptist Church under the leadership of Bishop Donte' L. Hickman Sr. She was an active member until her health declined.

Ethel leaves to cherish her memory a devoted son, Donald Sr.; grandchildren; Duane Marvin (Wantha), Dorian Cornell (Andrea), Donald Jr. (Danielle) and Jonathan; great grandchildren; Duane Jr., Livia, Alyssa; goddaughters; Shaunde Sousa and Tia Macklin; daughter in law; Mary Drakeford; a devoted, loving sister; Florence B. Mays, dear friend; Carolyn Trusty and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends