Theresa (Anastasia) Drake

Theresa Drake, 68, passed away on December 10, 2024, in Holmdel. Born on July 28, 1956, in Long Branch, Theresa lived a life marked by love, dedication, and an enduring spirit of generosity.

Predeceased by her beloved parents, Paul and Ella Anastasia, her cherished late husband, Ross Drake who passed away in 2019 and her grandson, Elijah Smith in 2013. Theresa's legacy of love and care continues through her family. She is survived by her devoted sons, Robert Baxter Sr. and his wife Alicia of Holmdel, and Joseph Baxter of Matawan; her loving daughters, Robin Reeder of Oklahoma, Mullica and her husband Yuth Piasupan of West Milford, and Samantha Smith and her husband Theo of Middletown. Her sister, Ella Stevenson of Bradley Beach, also survives her, as does her former husband and friend, Sawai Pomsanam of Matawan. Theresa's joy was multiplied through her 14 grandchildren Robert Jr., Bailey, Jacob, Riley and Kensi Baxter,  Charles and Angel Baxter, Christopher and Dylon Roof and Jessica Reeder, Leo Pomsanam, Leo, Adrian and Carson Smith, each of whom brought immense happiness and pride to her life.

Theresa dedicated her professional life to caring for others as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at Carousel of Home Care in Hazlet, where her kindness and professionalism touched the lives of many patients and their families.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Theresa was known for her love of Bingo, a pastime that brought her immense joy and served as a way to connect with friends and the community. She was also an avid crafter, taking pleasure in creating beautiful and heartfelt items that she generously shared with her loved ones and those around her.

Christmas was a special time for Theresa, and she will always be remembered for her famous French toast, a cherished tradition that became a treasured memory for her family. The warmth and love that she poured into this simple dish reflected the care and attention she gave to all aspects of her life.

As we say goodbye to Theresa, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of moments that will forever be etched in the hearts of her family and friends. Her spirit, her laughter, and her love will never be forgotten, and her legacy will live on through the lives of those she touched.

The family of Theresa Drake wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this time of remembrance. Theresa's life was a beautiful mosaic of the love she gave and the love she received, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Monday, December 16, 2024 from 4-8pm at the Jacqueline M. Ryan Home for Funerals 233 Carr Ave. Keansburg, NJ. Cremation will be private. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the family.

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