Lenny Lou Drake, 78, of Sedalia, Missouri, passed away Thursday, March 26, 2026, at University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia, Missouri. She was born April 5, 1947, in Shenandoah, Iowa, the daughter of Robert Hunt and Hazel (Norton) Hunt, who preceded her in death.
Lenny was a proud graduate of Shenandoah High School, Class of 1965. She later continued her education at Tarkio College in Tarkio, Missouri, where she pursued studies in geriatrics. Through two marriages, Lenny raised three children and devoted much of her life to caring for those she loved.
Over the years, Lenny worked a variety of jobs, but her true passion was found in flowers, plants, and gardening. She had a special gift for creativity and artistry, which showed in her love of china painting, crafting, reading, and floral arranging. Lenny found great joy in spending time with her family, friends, and her beloved dog, Sweet Pea.
Lenny is survived by her two daughters, Tiffanni Connell of Shenandoah, Iowa, and Amanda Drake of Sedalia, Missouri; six grandchildren, Ashley, Carissa, Kaelynn, Brayden, Hayleigh, and Brittany; nine great-grandchildren; one brother, Richard Hunt of Shenandoah, Iowa; one niece, Susie Tillman; and one nephew, Randy Hunt.
In addition to her parents, Lenny was preceded in death by her son, Anthony Drake, and daughter-in-law, Tammy Drake; one grandson, Dustin Grable; her former husband, Robert Drake; and her sister-in-law, Lucille Hunt.
A memorial service will be held at the Nishna Valley Funeral Home on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. A private family burial will take place at Rose Hil Cemetery. Immediately following the service, everyone is invited to the Eagles for a gathering and lunch with the family. Memorials may be directed to the Shenandoah Food Pantry or the Shenandoah Public Library.
