It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Laura Beth Drake of Framingham, MA who died on June 7th, 2025 at 35 years old. The following day, the family’s beloved dog, Bailey, who shared an extraordinary connection with Laura, also passed away. Laura bravely battled degenerative disc disease, chronic migraines, and severe POTS throughout her life. Despite enduring chronic pain, she demonstrated incredible perseverance and dedication to her healing. It is believed that Laura’s death resulted from a tragic accident when she fainted during a severe Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome episode. Her loved ones are devastated by this immense loss, which leaves an irreplaceable void in their hearts.
Laura was born on October 2nd 1989 to James and Mary (Goulet) Drake in Boston Massachusetts. She attended Dana Hall School, Quinnipiac College, and then Georgetown University for her masters. Laura was a vibrant soul with many passions. She was a devoted supporter of women’s sports and soccer, an enthusiastic fantasy football player, and a dedicated follower of K-POP and the band Blackpink. Laura loved her large extended family and treasured being in their presence. Her natural affinity for children was evident to all who knew her. In her healthier years, Laura relished living in the Pacific Northwest, particularly in Portland, Oregon, where she explored numerous coffee shops and worked for Nike in sports marketing. In recent years, Laura embraced her true self with pride and authenticity.
Laura is survived by her parents Mary and James Drake, sister Julie-Anne Drake, her maternal grandfather, Robert Goulet, many aunts and uncles, 21 beloved cousins, numerous 2nd cousins and countless friends. She is predeceased by her Maternal grandmother Rita Goulet, Paternal grandparents Anne and William Drake, and cousin Matthew Harris. Bailey, the family’s cherished dog, crossed the rainbow bridge just hours after Laura’s death. While the loss of another family member is deeply felt, there is comfort in knowing that Bailey and Laura are together again.
Family and friends are invited to honor and remember Laura’s life by gathering for visiting hours in the McCarthy, McKinney & Lawler Funeral Home, 11 Lincoln St. Framingham on Monday, June 16th from 4-8PM. Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday morning in St. Bridget Church, 830 Worcester Rd. Framingham at 10:30AM. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers donations in Laura’s name to Standing up to POTS, https://www.standinguptopots.org, or the Human Rights Campaign, https://www.hrc.org, are greatly appreciated.
To share a memory with Laura’s family, kindly visit www.mccarthyfh.com
Norton, McKinney & Lawler Funeral Home