Eleanor McClure Draper

She was born May 4, 1924 in Chattanooga to the late James Jesse & Effie Belle Goodner McClure.

She had three brothers and three sisters who preceded her in death. She was the widow of the late James “Jim” Draper. They were married for 62 years. Their only son Dr. Larry W. Draper and his wife, Sandra also preceded her in death.

A lifelong native of Chattanooga, she was a member of Ridgedale Baptist Church and the Friendship Sunday School Class. She was an accomplished church pianist and sang with her husband in a gospel quartet. She walked with her Savior for over 90 years. The love she had for her Savior was passed on to her son, who went on to be in the ministry for 58 years and plant 600 churches worldwide for the glory of God.

Survivors include her two granddaughters, Kelli Draper and Kimberly Draper of Chattanooga whom she adored; a very special niece, Peggy Pierce Powell of Atlanta; other niece and nephews which include, Jerry, Jim, and Marydon, cousins and a host of friends. The family would like to also recognize two special honorary daughters, Karla Wilkes of The Woodlands, TX and Patti Crittenden of Collegedale.

The family will receive friends Monday, August 1, 2022 from 12-2 p.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 p.m. at the East Brainerd Chapel with Dr. Bill Owens officiating.

The committal service will follow at Hamilton Memorial Gardens with Dr. Doug Plumlee officiating. Active pallbearers will be David Cooper, Cody Harvey, Bryan Boyer, Louis Simonetti, Gene Hodge, and Tshombe High.

The family would also like to thank the staff of Parkridge Hospital, 3rd floor, East and Dr. Matt Wiisanen for their excellent care of Eleanor Draper.

Her granddaughters are grateful for the rich heritage of faith passed on to them by their family and will continue to faithfully run our race until God calls us home. All glory, honor and praise be to God alone.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ridgedale Baptist Church, 1831 Hickory Valley Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421.

Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 East Brainerd Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com.