Mrs. Leila Drakeford

Leila Drakeford (Johnson) was born on January 8, 1944, to the union of the late Joseph and Helen Johnson and was one of nine children. Seven of her siblings preceded her in death: Ralph, Hattie Mae, Josephine, Harvey, Margaret, Larry, and Thomas. Leila was a proud graduate of the Detroit Public Schools, earning her diploma from Northwestern High School in 1962. In March 1964, she married Donald Drakeford, and together they raised three children: Joseph Johnson, Jason Drakeford, and Timothy Drakeford. Leila was baptized as a Jehovah’s Witness in 1965 and remained a devoted and faithful servant throughout her life. Her career began in 1968 at the Detroit Pickle Factory, where she worked as a canner. She later worked as a presser for a private tailor, before beginning her long and distinguished career at Amtrak in 1977. Over the years, Leila held several positions with the company, including coach cleaner, carman, and electrician. She also became an active member of the Amtrak union, serving as Steward, Secretary, and Vice President of the coach cleaners. She was honored in 2007 for 30 years of dedicated service to Amtrak. In addition to her work at Amtrak, Leila attended Henry Ford Community College School of Culinary Arts, where she honed her pastry and catering skills. She became famously known for her sweet potato pies, which were beloved by family and friends. Leila also contributed significantly to the growth and success of Drakeford & Sons to Drakeford Group., a family business that is the one of the last black-owned demolition companies in the Detroit Metropolitan area. Leila dedicated nearly 40 years of her life serving on the board of the Darden Rooks Johnson Family Club “DRJ”, devoting herself to keeping our family close. Her unwavering commitment and heartfelt efforts were the glue that held us together, fostering unity and connection across generations. Her many passions included cooking, baking, traveling, shopping, and, above all, spending time with her beloved family and adoring grandchildren. Leila is survived by her children: Joseph Johnson, Jason Drakeford, and Timothy Drakeford (Faye); grandchildren: Ashlee Johnson, Elise Drakeford, Laila Johnson, Elijah Howard, and Aiden Johnson; great-granddaughter, London Good; one brother, Stanley Johnson; and sisters-in-law: Becky Johnson of Maryland, Reta Johnson, and Pauline Drakeford of Florida. She also leaves behind her goddaughters, Winona Edwards (James) and the late Chrystal Moore, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and her spiritual brothers and sisters in the Jehovah’s Witness community. Leila’s passing marks the end of a life well-lived, full of love, faith, and service to others. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. II Corinthians 5; 7-8 For we live by faith and not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.

Mrs. Leila Drakeford

January 8, 1944 - January 11, 2025