Herman Lee Drawn

Herman Lee Drawn was born February 26, 1949, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, May 25, 2025.  

After spending his early years in Pittsburgh, Herman moved to Washington, DC in middle school. He graduated from Washington’s Cardozo High School where he was known as a “dresser.” All of his life, Herman was known for his sharp style and love of a well-tailored suit. He was also known for his love of Pittsburgh, and after graduating from high school, Herman moved back to the city where he enrolled at the University of Pittsburgh. 

He and Mary, his wife of more than 40 years, enjoyed spending time with family and friends and hosting gatherings at their home. Herman loved to laugh and had a deep appreciation for live music. At their annual gatherings, it was common to find live bands, delicious food, warm smiles, and love all around. The festivities often began in the afternoon and continued well into the evening. 

They also shared a passion for watching Steelers football and University of Pittsburgh basketball. In his later years, Herman enjoyed playing pool and participated in various pool leagues with his buddies.

Herman was a natural debater and ignited a thirst for knowledge and discussion in his daughters during exchanges around the dining table dissecting current events in the Pittsburgh Post Gazette. He’d exclaim, “no investigation, no right to speak!” as he shot down a baseless point. Always the positive pragmatist, if you brought a problem to him, he wouldn’t allow you to wallow! He was solution driven and would quickly pivot to ask “okay, now what?!” prompting you to move to next steps. 

Herman placed great emphasis on education as his children were growing up and was extremely proud of his daughters and their accomplishments—Shaunda, a thriving business owner; Jala, a respected Ivy League Doctor of Education; and his baby, Dana, who went off to explore the world with a career in international development.  

Herman worked with the Allegheny County Housing Authority where he served as lead building engineer. A carpenter by trade, he could build or fix anything, learning his carpentry skills from his father, “Big Herman.” 

Herman was preceded in death by his mother, Betty, father Herman, and sister Olivia.  He is survived by his wife Mary C. Drawn; daughters Shaunda (Tony), Jala (Kevin), and Dana; grandsons Jaylen, Carter, and Amari; granddaughters Ariana, Taylor and Zoe; great-grandson Michari, sister Mary E. Drawn, nephews Dwayne and Eric and a host of extended family and friends. 

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