Joyce E. Ake

RUMFORD - Joyce E. (Caldwell) Drake, 95, of Rumford, died peacefully at home on February 17, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.

She was the beloved wife of the late Benjamin F. “Frank” Drake, and mother of the late Donna Cowett.

Besides her parents, husband, and eldest daughter, she was predeceased by siblings Robert Caldwell, Mary Fallon, and Elmer Caldwell.

She is survived by her son, David Drake; daughters Anna Drake and Diane Matson; son-in-law David Matson; grandchildren Michael Cowett, Hannah Cowett, James Matson, Sarah Matson, Sophie Matson; great-grandson Samuel Elliott; brother William Caldwell; and many nieces and nephews.

Born January 25, 1928 in Gary, Indiana, Joyce was the daughter of Scottish immigrants Robert and Charlotte (Elliott) Caldwell.

She grew up in Rhode Island and California.

She met her future husband, Frank, in 1950 and they wed two years later, on April 19, 1952.

They were married for 55 years.

Over the years, Joyce was an active member of the PTA, an enthusiastic salesperson for World Book encyclopedias, and a respected sales associate at Save-Rite and The Lighting Center.

She very much enjoyed interacting with customers.

After her career in sales, she spent many years working for Home Instead as a caregiver for elderly clients, especially those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

She was so devoted to her caregiving work that she didn’t actually retire until the age of 92, when the 2020 pandemic made it impossible for her to visit her last remaining client.

Joyce had a deep faith in God and was an active and devoted member of Beneficent Church, in Providence, for almost 70 years.

She served as head deacon for several years and was a member of many church committees.

Joyce was a self-described “social butterfly,” and had many friends.

She loved her family dearly, and was a doting grandmother who treasured every minute spent with her grandchildren.

Fond of butterflies, cardinals, and anything to do with Scotland, she also loved to walk and be out in the fresh air and sunshine.

She enjoyed robust good health for most of her life and was a firm believer in making the most of every day.

Joyce lived life to the fullest.

She was so vital, so energetic, it seemed impossible that she would not live forever.

Her wake will be held Tuesday from 4-7pm followed by a brief prayer Service at William W.

Tripp Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket.

Interment at Bayside Cemetery in Laconia, New Hampshire will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of her late husband can be sent to Lewy Body Dementia Association, 912 Killian Hill Road SW, Suite 205, Lilburn, Georgia 30047.