January 27, 1940 – July 24, 2025
Allegany – J. Paige Drake, a resident of Allegany, peacefully passed away on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at her home following a brief illness.
Born on January 27, 1940, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Charles and Chrystal (Fox) Charles. On August 11, 1962, she married Donald Drake at St. Mary of the Angels Church in Olean; he predeceased her in 1993.
Paige graduated as salutatorian from Eldred High School in 1957. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Mansfield State College in 1961, where she was inducted into Kappa Delta Pi, the national education honor society. She later obtained her Master of Science in Education from St. Bonaventure University in 1965.
Paige devoted her life to teaching, spending the majority of her 38-year career as a first-grade teacher at Washington West in the Olean City School District. Her exceptional contributions to education were recognized when she received the Alcas Corporation’s Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award in 1992, having been named runner-up the year before.
A dedicated member of Christ United Methodist Church in Olean, Paige sang in the Chancel Choir for over 40 years and served on various church committees.
Outside her professional life, Paige had a passion for decorating and caring for her home. She was an avid reader, an enthusiastic bridge player, and enjoyed golfing. She was a long-time member of the Olean YMCA, Interfaith Caregivers, the Olean General Hospital Auxiliary, the 60 Plus Senior Organization of Allegany, and the American Contract Bridge Association. Additionally, she was affiliated with the NEA and NYSTA. Paige cherished the moments spent with family and friends the most. Her past two years were made extra special at her new home, thanks to the Field of Dreams Community.
She is survived by her two children, Laura P. Frase of Rye and John (Nicole) Drake of Allegany; four beloved grandchildren, Caelinn Drake, Emily Frase, Fiona Drake, and Caroline Frase; one sister Joella Demidont; two brothers-in-law, Robert Guenther and David (Marge) Drake; along with several nieces, nephews and dear friends.
In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by her sister, Sally Guenther and brother-in-law, Andreas Demidont.
Per Paige’s request, there will be no visitation or services; a private burial will be at St. Bonaventure Cemetery. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to:
Olean General Hospital, 515 Main Street, Olean, NY
Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, P.O. Box 631, Buffalo, NY 14240
Olean Public Library, 134 N. 2nd Street, Olean, NY
HomeCare and Hospice, 115 E. Main Street, Allegany, NY
Interfaith Caregivers, P.O. Box 319, Olean, NY
Arrangements are under the direction of Guenther Funeral Home, Inc., 1303 East State St., Olean. Online condolences may be shared at www.guentherfh.com
