Blanton M. "Buddy" Drake, Jr., 67, of Chapin, died unexpectedly at MUSC in Charleston on Monday, December 26, 2016. Born on March 18, 1949 in Charleston, SC, he was the son of the late Euna Blackburn Drake and Blanton Maurice Drake, Sr. "Buddy" was a business graduate of the University of South Carolina and was a dedicated member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity. He was a member of Lake Murray Presbyterian Church in Chapin. Many will remember Buddy from his days as the owner of Polo's and Whispers in Columbia. After his time in the hospitality business, he was the owner of Design Fabricators, specializing in solid surface and granite counter tops in the Columbia metropolitan area. He was a people person who loved sharing time with friends and family. He enjoyed spending time on Lake Murray putting around with friends. He was also an avid fan of the USC Gamecocks, especially enjoying basketball, baseball and football. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Julia W. Drake; his son, Kevin Blanton Drake of Charleston, and his loved dog, Ali. A Service to Remember will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 30, 2016 at Lake Murray Presbyterian Church conducted by the Rev. Ben Sloan. Visitation will be prior to the service on Friday from 12:30 p.m. until 1:45 p.m. at the church. The family suggests memorial donations be made to Lake Murray Presbyterian Church, 2721 Dutch Fork Rd, Chapin, SC 29036. Condolence messages and remembrances may be shared with the family at www.whitakerfuneralhome.com. Whitaker Funeral Home of Chapin is assisting the family.