Raymond R. Drude

Raymond R. Drude, 69, passed Saturday, February 15, 2025 at home in the arms of his adoring wife, Janet. He was born May 21, 1955 in Irvington, NJ, son of Raymond W. and Norma H. (Zeller) Drude. Surviving are his wife Janet; his mother, Norma; sister, Linda; cousins, nieces, and a multitude of friends in Virginia, New Jersey and other states. Ray graduated from Cranford High School, Cranford, NJ, class of 1973. He owned a body shop, drove a cement mixer, but was most proud of being an operating engineer. He retired in 2015, met up with his old friend Janet in 2016, and moved together to Rocky Mount in 2020 and married in 2021. Ray often said he was “Living The Dream.” Ray held his family and friends in the highest regards and they all loved him back. As Janet often said to Ray and their friends “Everybody Loves Raymond” and “You’re A Good Man, Mr. Drude.” A Celebration of Life will be held at Flora Funeral Chapel, 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 25, 2025 with Pastor Joe Dillon officiating. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.