LANCASTER ~ Nicholas Drake Starnes, 18, was born on February 13, 2008 to Nicholas Starnes and Holly Terry. Drake valiantly and courageously battled leukemia since December of 2021. While surrounded by loved ones Drake completed his battle here on Earth and entered the gates of Paradise on April 2, 2026.

Although Drake's time here was not nearly as long as we would have hoped for, this young man had a huge impact on many people. His courageous fight and faith in the Lord impacted people not only here in Lancaster but all the way up the eastern United States from Florida to New York, across the country from SC to Texas to California. The number of people who were touched by Drake in some way or another may never be known, but just a glimpse of the impact he had on our small town was evident with the huge, faith filled welcome home he received when he returned from treatment in California.

Drake loved many things: culinary arts, God, sports, cars, and the Clemson Tigers to name a few. Drake was actively starting his path to a future career by participating in the culinary arts program at the Lancaster Vocational Center and by working as a cook at Laurel Haven. He loved Chef Hawkes at school and loved working for Jenna. Although we won't hear Drake's testimony come from his mouth, it is walking with us every day. Through his journey, souls have been saved and seeds of faith have been planted in others. We should all strive to have the faith that Drake carried each and every day. It was not uncommon to find Drake watching some type of sports on television when you came by for a visit; if the Clemson Tigers or UFC happened to be on you could count on watching with him. Drake could rattle off athlete names and stats without even thinking. Drake enjoyed playing football and wrestling for Andrew Jackson where he made some great friends. Like many guys, Drake had a soft spot for cars and trucks. He enjoyed going to car shows with family members and tinkering on old vehicles with his dad and brother.

Drake leaves behind many, many people who loved and cared deeply for him. Among those left here to carry on Drake's legacy are his dad, Nicholas Starnes; his bonus mom, Jessica Starnes; his mom, Holly Terry; his bonus dad, Bobby Terry; his brothers, Gunnar Gaskin, Kasen Starnes, and Ryder Terry; his aunt, Meredith Brasington (Allan); his uncle, Rod Funderburk; his grandparents, David Funderburk (Wendy), Teresa Robertson (Alvin), bonus grandparents, Michael Murphy (Robin), Dana Swanson, and Maude Gainey; first cousins, Alyson Funderburk, Raegan Brasington, and Landrie Brasington; great grandparents, Joyce Funderburk, Peggy Evans, and Nancy Hinson; several bonus great grandparents and many aunts, uncles and cousins. A special place in Drake's heart belonged to his dog, Mia, and his girlfriend Lydia.

Drake was proceeded in death by his maternal grandmother, Tammy Funderburk; his paternal grandfather, Dennis Starnes; bonus grandfather, Jeff Swanson; several great grandparents and some dear friends.

The Celebration of Life Service for Drake will be 3:00 pm Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Second Baptist Church officiated by Pastor Chad Pate, Pastor Catlin Rollings, Allan Brasington, John Bradley, and Pastor Brad Kirkley. The family will receive friends from 1:00 – 3:00 pm, two hours prior to the service in the church foyer.

The family kindly asks that, in honor of Drake, attendees wear orange, pink, or any Clemson attire to the service. Your participation in this tribute would mean so much as we celebrate his life and the joy he brought to those around him.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who feel led to honor Drake’s memory by making a memorial contribution to Joss Cook. Joss is a brave 6-year-old little girl who is currently fighting the same type of leukemia that Drake faced with such strength. Throughout Drake’s journey, the family was deeply touched by the love, generosity, and support they received. It is their heartfelt wish to carry that same kindness forward by helping Joss and her family during this difficult time. If you would like to contribute, please make checks payable to Joss Cook and mail them to 4170 Long Pine Church Rd. Peachland, NC 28133.