Constance Yvonne Drake

Constance “Connie” Yvonne Drake, age 78, of East Syracuse, New York, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2026, surrounded by family that adored her.

Born in Syracuse, New York, on May 23, 1948 to the late Linton and Roberta Regal, Connie was a woman with a heart of gold. She grew up on a farm in Central Square, cultivating a lifelong love for the outdoors, country and classic rock music. Her deep patriotism was inspired by her father who was a Sergeant in the Army Corps of Engineers during World War II and past commander of the VFW post 5540 in Phoenix, New York. Connie proudly followed in his footsteps of service as an active, dedicated member of the Ladies Auxiliary, frequently participating in local parades and veteran functions.

Connie’s professional life was defined by beauty and care. After studying cosmetology at the Continental School of Beauty, she embarked on a fulfilling career. She retired after 25 years working with Visiting Nurses Association (VNA) of CNY, later continuing her passion through private home health care, both paid and volunteer. Her life was a testament to caring for others. Outside of work, she found great joy riding with the High Market Wheelers ATV Club and spending cherished time with her husband Brad, traveling both domestically and internationally. They both enjoyed taking care of their fur babies, “Panda and Snickers”. They would spend countless time dancing and following the Elvis shows performed by Tom Gilbo.

Connie is now reunited in peace with those who departed before her. Her parents, Linton and Roberta Regal; her brother, Robert Regal; her sister, Ronda Nash; and her beloved daughter, Dawn Rock.

Her enduring love lives on through family she leaves behind. She is survived by her siblings, Ernest (Susie) Regal and Paul (Patricia) Regal; and her children, Tammy (Larry) Pelkey, Mark Rock, and Steven (Terri) Drake. She was the proud grandmother of Justin and Brandon Cummings, Cory Jocko, Reilly and Caleb Rock, Kaitlyn, Courtney, and Zackary Drake. Her legacy also blooms through great- grandchildren, Cali and Cayden Cummings, Kenneth, Charles, and Violet, as well as an eagerly anticipated new baby girl Drake on the way. Connie also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family would like to thank Dr. James Telonis for being her primary doctor for over 40 years before retiring. Her second and most favorite Dr. Rau and all the nurses and doctors handling her care at St. Joseph’s Hospital. A special thank you to Dr. Colleen, and nurses Justin, Reggina and Olivia.

Connie gave so much of herself to this world. Though her song has ended, her melody will linger forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed, but the profound love she shared will never be forgotten.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 from 4 PM to7 PM at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 705 North Main Street, N. Syracuse, NY. A funeral service will follow at 7 pm to celebrate Connie’s life. Entombment will be private at a later date TBD at Hillside Memorial Cemetery, Central Square, NY.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider making a donation toward a burial plot for a deserving veteran in need at Central Square or any American Legion. Contributing to this cause is a beautiful way to carry forward Connie’s lifelong passion for honoring those who served our country.

To leave a message of condolence for Connie's family, or to share a special memory of Connie, please sign the guestbook below.