David Alan Drayton

David Alan Drayton, age 79, of Battle Creek passed away Sunday, February 23, 2025. He was born in Battle Creek on August 24, 1945 and graduated from Harper Creek High School with the Class of 1963. David faithfully served his country as a member of the United States Army and retired from Ralston Purina in 2005 after more than 36 years. 

David married Jean Harmon in Portage, Michigan on November 22, 1970; she survives. He is also survived by his son, Alan (Ilo) Drayton; his grandchildren, Ayrianna (Brett) Woodman, Aidan & Ava Drayton; his brother, John (Charlene) Drayton; and several nieces & nephews. David was preceded in death by his mother, Dora Janette Drayton, and his sister, Nancy Lubking. 

David was a member of the Sunset Cruisers Car Club and loved attending car shows with his 1965 Pontiac Grand Prix and won the “Best of Show” with his 1934 Ford Coupe Street Rod at the Marshall Car Show in 2023. He also enjoyed listening to music, reading, watching Westerns, and target shooting. David’s favorite passion was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

David’s family will receive friends 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, February 27, 2025 at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, Battle Creek where services to celebrate his life will be held 1:00 p.m., Friday, February 28, 2025. Interment will follow at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.