Lloyd D. Drake, age 74, of Rome, passed away on October 8, 2026, with his family at his side, after a three year battle with cancer.

Lloyd was born in Rome on August 8, 1952, one of 12 children to the late Raymond and Isabelle Williams Drake, and educated in the Rome Schools. On May 26, 1973, he was united in marriage to the former Barbara Smith. Lloyd retired from the City of Rome where he worked in the Parks Department for many years. Afterwards, he worked part-time for James Mitsubishi.

Lloyd was a man of many talents and a lifelong racing enthusiast whose passion began at a young age. He built his own stock car and spent countless nights racing modified cars at the Utica‑Rome Speedway. Whether in his garage designing and building new projects or enjoying friendly competition bowling with family and friends, he found joy in working with his hands and being surrounded by people he cared about. He cherished the simple routines of life, including meeting friends at Dunkin Donuts to share stories and laughter. Lloyd and his daughter, Shannon, shared a special bond through their love of dirt modified racing, often spending time together at the Utica‑Rome and Fonda Speedways. His other daughter, Sherry, and him were WWE fans and would watch it on tv and even attended local events as well. He also enjoyed camping, taking long scenic drives with his wife, Barbara, decorating for the holidays, riding his motorcycle, making his favorite chili, and making memories with his family at the Herkimer County Fair where they had a food stand named "Ducks Inn."

Lloyd's other love and comfort was his best friend, his dog Max. They were inseparable and the love of this devoted dog was a special bond that brought them both so much happiness.

Above all, Lloyd was a loving, generous man who would do anything for anyone. His family was the center of his world, and he poured his heart into every moment spent with them. His kindness, loyalty, and warm spirit touched everyone who knew him, and he will be deeply and forever missed.

Lloyd is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; his daughters, Sherry Drake and Shannon Drake; his sisters, Linda Coonrod, and Gloria Carmen; his brothers, Gary (Elizabeth) Drake, and James Drake; his dog Max who was his best friend; and many nieces and nephews, including his niece, April Spink, with whom he had a special bond with. He was predeceased by his sisters, Joan Walker and Melody Cassevah, and his brothers, Raymond Jr., Neil, David, Thomas, and Frederick Drake.

Relatives and friends may pay their respects on Friday, October 16, from 12 to 2 PM at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, Rome. A service will be held at 2 PM, and burial will follow in Rome Cemetery.

Please offer online condolences at: www.barryfuneralhome.com.