Wesley Grey Andrews, Jr.

Wesley Grey Andrews, Jr., beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2024, at his home in Colonial Heights, VA, surrounded by his loved ones. He was 99 years old.

Wesley was born on April 30, 1925, in Petersburg, VA. Growing up during the Great Depression, he developed a deep sense of compassion and commitment to serving others that defined his life.

A proud World War II veteran of the Army Air Corps, Wesley served as a bombardier on B-17s and B-29s, embodying bravery and dedication during a pivotal time in history. He pursued his education with vigor, attending Virginia Tech before the war, graduating from Hampden-Sydney College in 1949, and furthering his studies at the University of Virginia.

Wesley enjoyed a distinguished career as Vice President at Bank of America, in Hopewell, VA, where his leadership extended beyond banking. He was actively involved in civic life, serving as President of the Jaycees, the Kiwanis Club, and the Hopewell United Fund. His commitment to community service was evident in his role as Treasurer for numerous organizations, including First Presbyterian Church, where he also served on the Board of Elders and the Board of Deacons.

Wesley made lasting contributions to local education during his eight years on the Hopewell School Board, including four years as Chairman. After retiring to Surfside Beach, SC, he remained committed to giving back, volunteering his time to teach literacy, assist the Police Department, and prepare income taxes for seniors. Upon relocating to Colonial Heights, he continued his volunteer work, supporting tax preparation efforts, and serving his homeowners association and church.

Wesley is survived by his beloved wife of 24 years, Ethel Gallaher Andrews. He was previously married for 39 years to Christine Eastridge Andrews, who predeceased him. He is also survived by his children, Dianne Andrews Fagerli (Bud), Carolyn Andrews Pumphrey (Alan), and Karen Andrews Jones (Keith); his stepchildren, Lisa Gallaher Riley (Glenn) and Patrick Gallaher.

Wesley's family includes grandchildren, Ashley Jones Rolfe (Justin), Kirsten Fagerli, Lauren Jones Mitchell (Lewis), Eric Fagerli, Megan Pumphrey Love (Jeffrey), Sarah Pumphrey, as well as, Sarah Riley Hodges (John), Jensen Gallaher, Matthew Riley (Morgan), and Tayler Gallaher Crawford (Scott); along with great-grandchildren, Graylynn Riley, Ella Belle Riley, Elizabeth Hodges, Emery Crawford, and Ella Ruth Crawford; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Wesley Grey Andrews and Bessie Kidd Andrews; and his siblings, Osborne Andrews, Charlotte Andrews Foley, Louise Andrews Atkins, and Preston Andrews. Wesley will be remembered not only for his accomplishments but for the kindness and warmth he shared with all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 11, 2024, from 5 pm to 7 pm, at Wesley United Methodist Church, 3701 Conduit Road, Colonial Heights, VA 23834. The service will be held Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at 2 pm, at Wesley United Methodist Church, followed by interment, with military honors, at Blandford Cemetery, in Petersburg, VA. A reception will be held immediately after the graveside service at Wesley United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Wesley United Methodist Church or the charity of your choice.