Frederick Andrews, 83, of Live Oak, passed away Tuesday, July 20, after a short illness. He is survived by his daughter, Tracy Forest; son-in-law, Ed Forest; two granddaughters, Callie and Sarah Forest and sister, Deloris Watson. He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Flora (Warner) and siblings, Marvin Andrews, Ethelle Andrews, Develle Cordray, Irving Andrews and Julian Andrews.
Andrews was born and raised in Madison County, obtained his bachelor's and master's degrees from Florida State University and served two years in the Army before settling in Live Oak in 1970 with his wife and daughter. He served as the Director of the Suwannee River Regional Library and found joy in introducing children to the love of reading. He made the move to serve as the librarian at the newly constructed "Elementary East" school in 1976. Several years later, Andrews pursued a second master's degree in elementary education and changed careers to teach fourth and fifth grade until his retirement. His creative teaching style reached countless students, even those struggling to find the joy in learning.
Andrews was a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church, teaching Sunday school, serving on the Board of Trustees and living out his faith through acts of service to others. He was also key in the restoration of the historic Dowling House and was a familiar figure there, working on the gardens and the old building. Gardening was his favorite hobby. He spent his life noticing nature and poured those observations into greening his world with flowers, trees and vegetables. Many family members and friends have been gifted with plants that were propagated in Andrews' "plant hospital." More than anything, he cherished spending time with family, especially his granddaughters, even though miles kept them apart, as the girls grew up as military kids. He bridged those miles by regularly writing letters, decorated with stick figure cartoon drawings that have become cherished keepsakes. He spent the last few years helping his daughter and son-in-law develop their farm in central Florida, passing on his knowledge yet again, ever the teacher.
A funeral service was held to celebrate Andrews' life on Saturday, July 24, at First United Methodist Church, in Live Oak, Fla., with Rev. Susie Horner officiating. Visitation was held prior to the service. Interment followed at Live Oak Cemetery. Please sign the online guestbook at www.danielsfuneralhome.com.