Betty Christina Drake , 89, died March 15, 2024, at St. Anthony Nursing Center in  Lafayette surrounded by her family. Betty was born April 30, 1934 in Lafayette to the late Lloyd "Buck" & Allie Norwood. She was married to Clyde R. Drake on July 26, 1951. He preceded her in death on November 20, 2014.

During Betty's early years along with her brother Eugene they formed the "Norwood Duo" where she played the bass fiddle, guitar & the mandolin. They were often heard on both Lafayette & Indianapolis radio stations.

Betty farmed alongside her husband Clyde in the Benton County area for 60 years & raised five children. They also operated C&B Storage in Otterbein.

During planting & harvest, Betty would prepare meals for Clyde & anyone else who was working in the fields that day. She frequently ran errands to get needed parts to keep the equipment running. She was even known to operate a tractor & to haul grain to the elevator. Betty was often present at horse shows, ball games & any other activities of both her kids and grandkids. Playing cards with lifelong friends was also a favorite pastime.

Betty is survived by her five children: Connie (Tom) Murray, Randy (Donna) Drake, Debra Drake, Cheryl (Eric) Drake-Woodings & Brent Drake. She was also Mamaw to 14 grandkids & 27 great grandkids. She was preceded in death by her brother Eugene Norwood.

Visitation will be Tuesday, March 26, 2024, from 10 AM until the time of services at 12 PM, at Shoemaker Funeral Home, Otterbein, with Rev. Jeff Stedge officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Otterbein Volunteer Firefighters, PO Box 577, Otterbein, IN 47970 or Benton County EMS Donations, 604 E. 2nd St., Suite C, Fowler, IN 47944. Visit www.shoemakerfh.com or Shoemaker Funeral Home- Otterbein, Indiana Facebook page to leave any condolences or to share a memory or picture of Betty.