Joanne M. Drake

LITTLE GENESEE — Joanne M. Drake, 77, of Little Genesee, passed away peacefully Tuesday (Jan. 27, 2026).

Joanne was born Oct. 18, 1948, in Olean, the daughter of the late Kenneth and Betty Buckles Hunt.

Joanne’s passions included spoiling grandchildren and grand-dogs, sewing, knitting and enjoying the outdoors. No matter the weather, she could often be found outside clearing snow, mowing the lawn, protecting flower beds from wildlife, or simply enjoying the backyard swing.

Joanne centered her life around her family and was happiest when spending time with them.

She is survived by two children, Jon (Stephanie) Drake and Chad (Sandra) Drake; her grandchildren, Daniel and Megan Drake; her siblings, David Hunt, Mike Dale (Jean Odrun Kesson Hunt) Hunt and Penny (Chris Taylor) Hunt; nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, Tracy Kretchman, Josh, Keith Jr., Keiran, Holly Weitzel, Hanna, George Paul Cleveland Jr., Bradley Michael (Erin Marie Coleman Hunt) Hunt, Sean, Will, and Tommy Hunt,  Gene, Joe and Kendra.

She was preceded in death by her husband, David I., in 2007; and her parents, Kenneth and Betty.

A public celebration of Joanne’s life will be held at a date and time to be announced. A private burial and celebration of life is being planned when the family can gather on the backyard swing.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to a charity of choice, as Joanne believed in supporting charitable organizations.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Guenther Funeral Home, Inc., 1303 E. State St., Olean.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com.