Joe Andrews, a proud World War II U.S. Navy veteran and beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, entered into the presence of the Lord on February 19, 2026, at the age of 101.
Born on June 20, 1924, in Okfuskee, Oklahoma, to Henry and Hazel Andrews, Joe was the youngest child and his mother’s cherished baby boy. He worked on a farm alongside his two brothers, Albert and Gilbert, and his father. At 17, with his mother’s reluctant permission, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He rose to the rank of Petty Officer First Class and served aboard the USS Zeal, USS Pastores, and USS Chikaskia.
After the war ended in 1946, Joe moved to San Diego, California, where he met and married the love of his life, Amelia Maxine Andrews. Together they were blessed with three children: Beverly, Michael, and Marcus. Widowed in 1979, he carried that loss with quiet strength but remained devoted to his family.
A man of strong character and steady discipline, Joe believed in respect, order, and standing tall in every situation. He dressed with class, carried himself with dignity, and often reminded his family to keep your eyes open and move wisely through life. Though he could be stern at times, he also loved a good scratch off ticket, a Padres game, and had an easy sense of humor. His expressions and simple remarks often brought laughter to family and friends without even trying.
He is survived by his daughter Beverly Manson, his sons; Michael Andrews and spouse Terry, and Marcus Andrews and wife Ruby, his grandchildren, from oldest to youngest, LaTashia Manson Fuller and husband Eric Fuller, Jasiri Harrison, Eugene Michael Anderson and wife Gina Anderson, Tanjalika Carter and husband Anthony Carter, Amelia Andrews, Victoria Latashia Andrews, Sherita Shelton, Sharica Andrews, Sheena Shelton, Ashley Dial, Shanica Andrews Fitzpatrick and husband James Fitzpatrick, Brittany Bradford, Jordan Andrews, Precious Jones, April Andrews, and Angela Brown Andrews and wife Annette Brown Andrews and a host of great-grandchildren and extended family who will carry his memory forward.
Joe lived a remarkable life marked by courage, faith, laughter, and enduring love. His guidance shaped generations, and his stories will continue to echo through family gatherings for years to come. Though deeply missed, his strength and spirit remain forever on.