Ed Drakeley, 87, of Coatesville, PA died peacefully on June 23rd, 2024.

He was born in Philadelphia, PA on August 21st, 1936 the youngest of 5 children to the late William and Anna Drakeley.

Ed loved to tell stories of growing up on S. Ithan Street where he enjoyed good times with many cousins.

He was a proud graduate of West Catholic High School and took great pleasure in meeting and striking up conversation with other West alumni. Following graduation, he worked at The Budd Company where he made several lasting friendships. During his time with The Budd Co. he also attended college in the evening.  After his retirement, he spent time as a handyman and carpenter, always tinkering, building something, or working on a car. His sons credit their mechanical "know how" to watching and working with their Dad.

Ed had a deep and diverse love of music, which he instilled in his children, he would often put those big foamy headphones on you “..listen, listen!”

He was a very funny guy with a quick wit, always ready with a joke, generations of family & friends have enjoyed his sense of humor.

An avid reader and a history buff, Ed was also a lifelong Eagles & Phillies fan, taking his kids to countless games in the early days of Veterans Stadium.

Later in life he and his dear wife Bonnie, fervent dog lovers, fostered and adopted many dogs in their Chester County home.

Ed was a caring father to his children, Ed (Anne Marie), Michael (Adrianna), Donna Drakeley Mitchell (Bill) and Denise Drakeley Miller. He was a devoted husband to his loving wife Bonnie Drakeley (nee Schmidt) and stepfather to Jaime Schmidt and Brian Schmidt. He was the fun Uncle Eddie to his treasured nieces and nephews, as well as grand nieces and nephews. Also survived by Ed are his 12 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Ed was predeceased by his sisters Miriam (Ferry), Ann (Yokich), Doris (Byrne) and his brother Bill Drakeley.

A service of remembrance will be held on July 25th from 5:00pm-7:00pm at Silverside Church, 2800 Silverside Rd. Wilm, DE 19810

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to may make a donation to Brandywine Valley SPCA in Ed’s name.

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