R.S. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home | Memphis, TN

Obituary For Early C. Drane Jr.

Early C. Drane, Jr., 73, was called home on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at Methodist Hospital. God whispered his name and the beloved “Mayor of Dixie Heights” stepped from time into eternity. He leaves to mourn his passing his best friend of over 50 years, Ella J. Drane, two daughters, DaShena R. (William) Watts, LaSaundra D. Eafen; three grandchildren, Kristen E. Watts, Camryn A. Eafen and William J. Watts, IV; grand dog, Rocko Watts; brother, James H. (Lorraine) Drane; two sisters, Ilene D. (Dan) Williamson, De’Leice R. Drane; mother-in-law, Fredda B. Tucker; brothers-in-law, Jimmie L. (Rosemerry) Tucker and Hugh P. (Terry) Tucker; sister-in-law; Patricia L. Tucker; aunt Otha Burgess; uncle, Shirley Drane; nephews, nieces, great-nieces, great-nephews, and host of other relatives, friends and Dixie Heights community. He was preceded in death by his parents, Early C. and Jannie Mae Drane; brother and sister-in-law, Melvin L. (Mary) Drane, Sr.; sisters, Janice M. Drane and Doris Drane.

Early's life and legacy will be celebrated with a visitation Friday, September 22, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church located at 1482 Pillow St., Memphis, TN 38106. September 23, 2023, he will lie in state from 10:00 a.m. - 10:55 a.m. with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Pentecostal COGIC 229 S Danny Thomas Blvd, Memphis, TN 38126.

Interment will be immediately following the services in Memphis Memory Garden Cemetery, 6444 Raleigh LaGrange, Memphis, TN 38134.

Guest Book

Prayers for the family and my long time friend. Rod Martin

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Gonna miss you young man. Thanks for always checking on me and encouraging me. Also, thanks for welcoming me into your family. Peace and Blessings Pastor Rey

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This is Roosevelt Hancock, long time neighbor and friend of Early C. Drane, Jr. I had the opportunity to serve as Early's B team basketball coach at Hamilton High School. Early was a hard working and very serious young man and athlete. He was fun to be around and coach. Early will be very surely remembered for the love and compassion he demonstrated daily for Hamilton High School and Dixie Height. He will be truly missed.

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To the Drane family, Early will never be forgotten in our hearts. May he find peace in his sleep. Keeping you in our prayers and thoughts. Mary Baker Doby

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Dear Drane Family, I am a friend of your beloved DeLeice, and offer my sympathy and prayers for your departed. May God strengthen you daily, especially the times when your hearts are heaviest. Sincerely, Tangie Gray, Covington, GA

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Our Deepest Condolences The Hayslett Family

- Erma T Hayslett

Deepest Sympathy and Love. He is smiling in heaven and looking down on us. Gladys Haynes Pollard

- Gladys Haynes

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Family, We are praying for peace and comfort during this time. Rest well, Jr. Tonya Smith & Family

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We are sending our prayers, love, and light to the Drane family. Rest well! ~ The Futrell Family | Durham, NC

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Shoot some b-ball while in heaven

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"The Mayor," as he was affectionately known as, was a great man who cared deeply for his family. His positive energy and genuine spirit will be missed, and never forgotten. Early, Jr., get your rest, you deserve it!

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You will be sorely missed my brother. Rest in the Master's hand.

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- R.S. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home | Memphis, TN