Lilia F. Drakes

Lilia F. Drakes was born in Silver Sands, Barbados on December 5, 1936 to Mitchinson and Enid Drakes. Lilia was the 5th of 12 children, nine brothers and two sisters. Lloyd, Frank Vaughn, Norman, Joel, Wendell, Wynona, Wyman, Duan, George, and Pamelia. Leila, as she was affectionately known, was very close to her father and was a Daddy's girl; he was delighted to finally have a daughter. She loved listening to his deep voice in the church choir. Her father was one of the most influential people in her life; he always encouraged her to do the things that she loved. She was close to her mother too and would help her sew, cook, bake, and care for the younger children.
Lilia loved her childhood growing up near the beach, although she never learned to swim, she had a life-long love of the water and light houses.
Lilia completed high school in Barbados. In 1959 she travelled to London, England to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse. During this time, she met the love of her life, Michael Jordan; they had their only child, Andrea. She completed her studies and practiced as a registered nurse and mid-wife. Becoming a nurse was one of Lilia's greatest accomplishments because it allowed her to care for people. In London, she enjoyed a life surrounded by her siblings, great friends, and second family, the Yethmans.
In 1969, Lilia migrated to the USA for employment and educational opportunities; she eventually settled in Rochester, NY. She worked at Strong Memorial Hospital, St. Mary's, several nursing homes, ending her career with the Veterans Administration. She enjoyed OB/GYN, Psychiatry, and Geriatrics. Lilia had a special love for the elderly and respected their wisdom and experience.
She was a long-time member of the Jefferson Avenue Seventh Day Adventist Church. She served on the Nurses' Board and developed lifelong friendships. She would often invite new arrivals home for Sabbath lunch and assist them as they acclimated to the area.
Lilia loved to travel and was always on the go! She enjoyed trips to the Caribbean, Niagara Falls, Toronto, Massachusetts, and New York City to visit family and friends. She would often take friends along.
Lilia loved her family. She was proud of their accomplishments and often helped in any way she could. Several family members stayed with her through the years. In the 90s she moved to Barbados to care for her elderly father. During this time, she rekindled her relationship with the love of her life, Michael Jordan. They remained together until his death. She remembered birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions; always sending a card or gift. She had many god children whom she loved and cherished, especially Lian.
She was fond of music especially Calypso and Classical; she loved poetry, to dance, and to laugh. She loved Black history and culture and was proud of her Caribbean heritage.
The joy of her life was her grandson, Jordan. They had a special bond. She took him on many trips and adventures. He became her caregiver, for a time, as her journey with dementia progressed. She loved her daughter, Andrea and provided her with the best life possible. She instilled the values of hard work, honesty, service, and a strong sense of self.


Lilia was a force of nature – her brother nicknamed her "The Mighty Atom". She believed in being kind and courteous – manners mattered.
Dementia may have dimmed her memories, but not her joy. She was gracious and thankful to the end.
Lilia passed away on December 14, 2022 at the age of 86. She is greatly missed by her daughter Andrea, grandson Jordan, brothers Wendell, Duan (Gracelyn), and George (Dale); and special friends Vincent Poroman and Dr. Mary Miller. She will be missed by her many nieces, nephews, godchildren and a host of friends.
Lilia is predeceased by her parents Mitchinson and Enid Drakes, siblings Lloyd, Vaughn, Norman, Wyman, Wynona, Frank, Joel, and Pamelia and her love Michael Jordan.

A special thank you to all those who had a hand in Lilia's care throughout her journey:

Wendy Bynoe
Winsome James
Orrie Scott
Daisy Fairwell
Roslaine Jean-Baptiste
Jordan Donaldson
Pattie Robertson
Colleen Walters
May Clarke
June Harvey-Bowen
Chelsea Moses
Sandra Thompson
Dr. Mary Miller

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in her name to the Alzheimer's Association.
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