Veronica "Ronnie" Draves

On Tuesday April 2, Veronica (Ronnie) Draves, age 74, passed away after a long battle with cancer. During these last few years, Ronnie demonstrated a determination and bravery that brought admiration. Her friends describe her as funny, with a ready smile and found the good in everyone. She loved to read, to play mah jongg, the beach and to travel.Born on Easter Sunday April 17, 1938 in Teaneck, New Jersey, Ronnie graduated from Holy Trinity Catholic High School. She married her sweetheart, Donald Draves and enjoyed 47 years of marriage. Ronnie is survived by Don, their 3 children, Sharon Draves (Robert Disko) of Carmel, Indiana, Scott Draves of Sugar Grove, Illinois and Donna Draves Jacobsen (Jason Jacobsen) of Sugar Grove, Illinois, and her sister, Anna Curtin (Jim Bois). Her four grandchildren, Meghan, Andrew, Larkin and Reid brought her joy and happiness. Her extended family includes nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. After raising her three children, Ronnie began a second career working as a Paraprofessional with the Long Branch Schools in New Jersey helping kindergarten children. After 17 years, she retired. Ronnie and Don moved to Sun City in 2007. Since moving here, she and Don have made many new friends and traveled extensively. A memorial celebration will be held at 7:00 pm, Tuesday, April 9, 2013 at Sauls Funeral Home, 90 Simmonsville Rd., Bluffton. The family will receive friends beginning at 6:00 pm until the hour of the service. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Noon on Wednesday, April 10, 2013 at Saint Gregory the Great Catholic Church, 333 Fording Island Road, Bluffton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society, Donor Services, P.O. Box 4072, Pittsfield, MA 01202.