Blanche Drake Dews

Blanche Drake Dews, 88, of Arkadelphia, passed away on July 8, 2015 in Tallahassee, Fla. Born in Hope, Ark. to the late Bynum Jerome and Ena (Powell) Drake. Graduate of Henderson State Teacher's College, majoring in piano and violin. Elected to Who's Who in American College and Universities. There she met Charles Weber Dews of Arkadelphia, Ark. They married on Aug. 17, 1947 and were happily married for 66 years, becoming proud parents of four daughters. Blanche's love of music was expressed throughout her life: teaching private piano lessons, directing children's choirs and serving on worship and music committees in the churches where she was a member. She and Charlie retired while living in Dallas, Texas, later moving to Tallahassee where they spent their last 14 years. She was preceded in death by daughter Margaret and by Charlie. Survived by daughters Martha Sappenfield, Ann (Calvin) Gleaton and Libby (Gary) Markham; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Visitation will be at Ruggles-Wilcox Funeral Home, Wednesday, July 22, before the graveside service at 11 a.m. at Rose Hill Cemetery, Arkadelphia. Sign on line guest book at www.ruggleswilcox.com.