Michael A. Draughn

Michael Alvin Draughn July 25, 1958 - October 23, 2025 Michael A. Draughn: His-Story Michael A. Draughn, known affectionately as Shaheer to his loving wife and Shake by many family and friends, finished his earthly journey on October 23, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family. He was born on July 25, 1958, to Joseph Draughn and Helen (Newcomb) Draughn, the eighth child to join their large family. Though he loved his first name, Michael, he would rarely reveal his middle name, Alvin, which he disliked. A Foundation of Faith and Family First and foremost, Michael's foundation was his unwavering belief in God, established by the teachings and examples of his parents. He was a lifelong member of Grace Church, never venturing far from his faith and the Word of God, a dedication that made his mother proud. Growing up, Michael often told his siblings that his motivation for making good choices was the sound of his father’s words of wisdom in his head. He worked hard to avoid disappointing his dad and, most importantly, to stay out of trouble with him. Michael was a proud graduate of the Chester Upland School District, Class of '77. He continued his education at Pierce Business School, majoring in Business Economics, and obtained several specific certificates and certifications throughout his career. Career and Community Service. Michael’s career was marked by dedication, culminating in his service to his hometown. Prior to working for the City of Chester, Michael was employed at Sunroc Inc. in Aston, PA. His last employer was the City of Chester, where he began working in various departments in 1998. He spent his final seventeen years in his most loved position as an Inspector for the city. This role allowed him to connect with many people, and his deep love for his community and culture meant he was always ready to engage in conversation and help those in need. Beyond his professional work, Michael fulfilled his civic duty by serving for numerous years as a Judge of Elections in the 1st Ward. A Soft Spot for Children Of all the names Michael was called, one was most cherished: Pop Pop. A widely known fact about Mike was the deep love and "soft spot" he had for his children and grandchildren. For them, the word "No" was not in his vocabulary. His goal was always to ensure their happiness and contentment. Though he was a law-abiding citizen, he would break the rules for his grands. Nothing was off-limits. His grandchildren cherished their time sitting behind the wheel of his car with him until they could no longer fit—each one getting a piece of Pop Pop's boundless affection. Passion for Sports and Coaching Other than the love he held for his devoted wife, children, grandchildren, family, and friends, Michael loved his sports! His favorite team was the Dallas Cowboys; he wore the blue proudly and unapologetically in Eagles territory. While he enjoyed watching and attending Sixers games, his heartfelt love was for basketball coaching. Known as Coach Mike, he spent generations coaching children in the Biddy League Organization in the City of Chester. He was more than a coach; he would go above and beyond the "duties" to fulfill his players' needs. He purchased sneakers and paid for things when players' families couldn’t afford them. Coach Mike was a mentor, a motivator, a father figure, and a friend. He believed in every child who touched a basketball, teaching them not only the fundamentals of the game but also the values of teamwork and respect. His patience, encouragement, and genuine love for what he did inspired both children and parents. Mike didn't just mold players; he helped shape character, confidence, and community. Cherished Memory Michael leaves to cherish his precious memory his kind and loving wife, Rosalind Wray Draughn, who was by his side until his peaceful transition. Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Draughn and Helen (Newcomb) Draughn, and his beloved siblings: Darryl Draughn, Linda Wilson, Shahidah Alkaabah, Robert Townsend, and Carolyn Watkins. Also left to mourn and miss his loss are his children: Sons: Rondai Johnson, Shamar Cooper (Diane), Shawn Michael Draughn (Biancia), and Kareem Mansfield. Daughters: Shakera Wray, Shannon Wray, Sharese Draughn, Shanice Draughn, and Shavonne “Baby” Draughn. He is also survived by his beloved siblings: Shawn Hasan Draughn (Annette) of Atlanta, GA. Darla Hadiyah Saleem (Anwar) of Chester, PA. Douglas Hamin Draughn (Danita) of Atlanta, GA. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren Jah’Bree, Tariq, Sumirah, Gavin, Gabbi, Sariyah, Diamond, JiYea, Balei, RahSii, Karter, Dallas, Bella, Jordan, Justin, Selah, Rehana, Teonna, Breuna, Layla, Maquivel, Kamari, Neveah, Knije, Kamiyah, Kareem, Kaiser greatgrandchildren Mylah, Temperance, Evangelina His day one niece 1/1 Debbie & adopted sister Najah Sabree of Chester, SC, countless nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and neighbors. A special thank you is extended to Howard Shabazz Blake for all his acts of kindness.