Christine Hays-Drake, 72, of St. Petersburg, FL passed away on July 1, 2025, at the Bay Pines VA Hospice Center following a short battle with lung cancer. She was born in Washington D.C. to David and Doris Edwards (Farnsworth) on January 1st 1953. After graduating from high school at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado, she enlisted in the Air Force, following in the footsteps of her father. During their respective military careers, she traveled to countries such as Germany, Japan, and Greece.   On May 25, 2012, she married Richard E. Drake on the boat dock of their home on Boca Ciega Bay. They shared 25 wonderful years together. Christine also worked for many years in retail at John’s Pass where she was loved by coworkers and customers alike. She was proudly a part of the American Legion Post 252. Christine loved to read, dote on her cats,  & collect jewelry. She had a heart of gold, a quick wit, and could make anyone feel at ease & like family. She will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Christine was preceded in death by her son, Steven Hays; stepson, Richard E Drake, II; her parents, and a brother.

She is survived by her husband; son, Kevin Hays; granddaughter, Hayle Hays; daughter-in-law, Shae Amatore; daughter-in-law, Christy Drake-Ballard; stepgrandchildren, Andrew Barker, Elizabeth Drake, Eric Drake (Caylee), and Abigail Drake.

Services will be held at a future date at Bay Pines VA National Cemetery.