Norman Linwood Drake Sr. - Cremation Society of Virginia

Norman Linwood Drake Sr.

May 7, 1935 - October 5, 2025

Norman Linwood Drake, Sr., of Chesapeake, VA, age 90, passed peacefully on October 5, 2025. Norman was born on May 7, 1935 in Capron, VA.

He attended school in Norfolk, VA until he joined the U S Navy in 1953. In 1958 he started at Norfolk Shipbuilding & Drydock as an apprentice. After graduating he served in many positions including apprentice teacher, rigging supervisor, night plant manager, and rigging shop foreman until he retired in April of 1993. Since retirement he has spent most of his time treasure hunting.

He is predeceased by his parents Linwood and Mary Drake, his sisters, Barbara Morgan and Martha Grijalva,

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Sharon, sons, Norman Jr. (Susan), Robert (Wanda), daughter, Lisa Hamilton (Tommy), grandsons, Justin and Jimmy and several nieces and nephews.

A private family service will be held at the Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery, Suffolk, VA. A Celebration of his Life will be held at the Portsmouth Moose Lodge, Saturday, November 1 at 1:00 p.m. The Cremation Society of Virginia, Chesapeake Office, is assisting the family during this difficult time. Friends and family may share online condolences and memories at www.vacremationsociety.com

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Norman Linwood Drake, Sr., of Chesapeake, VA, age 90, passed peacefully on October 5, 2025. Norman was born on May 7, 1935 in Capron, VA. He attended school in Norfolk, VA until he joined the U S Navy in 1953. In 1958 he started at Norfolk Shipbuilding & Drydock as an apprentice. After graduating he…

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The neighbors of Brentwood will sure miss Mr.Drake. I will miss seeing him riding up Ferndale Rd going to Wendy’s for Chili. Condolences to the family.

Dear Sharon and family - I worked for Mr. Drake years ago in the Rigging Shop before going to the Payroll Dept. I loved my years at Norshipco (BAE) and it was people like Mr. Drake I miss. We had bonfires you would attend, and many fun times. I think it was the roof he fell off of and broke maybe both of his wrists or something; I was in the shop then and remember updating the Rigging Safety manual as he dictated it. I remember the 1st day on the ship and Tommy White called Mr. Drake and said what in the !@#$^ did you send me? (HaHa) I didn't let it bother me, I worked twice as hard - but got out of the shop as soon as I found an opening in payroll. Tons of fond memories - think about them often and certainly keeping you in thoughts and prayers during this time....Michelle Sawyer

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.