Charles E. Andrews

Charles Eugene Andrews, 87, of West Palm Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2024. He was born on June 14, 1937 in Newark, New Jersey to Mazzella Andrews- Thorpe and Eugene Nelson. Charles who was known as Sonny by family and friends attended Red Bank High School in Red Bank, NJ. He Graduated in 1955 and then went into the United States Army from January 11, 1955 to December 24, 1957. During that time he served in the Korean War, he was Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne and he was also a Sergeant.

Following his time in the service, Charles had an extensive work history within many different roles. Charles worked for Englehard Industry a Gold and Silver plated company. Charles then hit a milestone and became one of the first African American Gas Station Owners in Union New Jersey by the name of Center Island Mobil off of Route 22. After opening up his gas station Charles obtained his Boilers license and became the Superintendent at Senior Building Grace West Manor where he worked for 15 years. While working as a superintendent he also worked for United Airlines in their Cabin Service where he retired after 20 years.

Charles met his late wife Robin in 1983. Charles and Robin moved to South Florida in 2000 where they spent the rest of their lives surrounded by Family. Charles established his security business, Lighting Security in 2003 where he provided service to Sherbrooke Estates for 21 years. Charles had a passion for bowling, riding his bicycle, working on random projects and of course his dedication to his job. However, Charles's greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband and loving father, who always put family first. He cherished first spending time with his children and grandchildren, whether it was a simple gathering or a family vacation. He constantly expressed his love and support for his family, and they were his top priority in life.

He was preceded in Death by his Dear loving and precious Wife Robin L. Andrews, his parents

Mazzella - Thorpe Andrews and Eugene Nelson and his brother Lenwood Thorpe. He is survived by his 11 children, Michael E. Andrews of Wellington FL, Shawnda T. Andrews of Somerset NJ, Charles Andrews Jr of Hillside NJ, Jillian M Byrd of Princeton NJ, Byron Kearney (Kecia) of Riviera Beach FL, Valencia Kearney of Port St Lucie FL, Derrick Andrews of West Palm Beach FL, Nykema Jackson-Andrews of West Palm Beach FL, Daquan Andrews of West Palm Beach FL, Daron Andrews of West Palm FL, and Yakima Jackson of West Palm Beach FL.

Charles is also survived by his 18 grandchildren, Alicia, Lauren, Destinee, Noah, Michael Jr, Aniyah, Ayanna, Stacy, Samaya, Nasir, Oksana, Mariah, Ja’nyla, Brandon, Gregory, Jacob, Carter, Dashawn and two great grandchildren. Charles is to Cherish his three sisters and one brother, Darlene Thorpe, Lashawnda Thorpe, Joann Thorpe and Samuel Thorpe. He is also survived by two sister in laws, two brother in laws and two special cousins.

Charles's hard work, determination, and compassionate nature touched the lives of many. He was a shining example of what it means to live with purpose and integrity. Although we mourn his loss deeply, we are grateful for the time we had with him and the memories that will live on.

Charles will be remembered for his generosity, selflessness, charisma, and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to Charles, a devoted family man and hard worker, who has ascended into the kingdom of heaven. Known for his unwavering commitment to his loved ones and work, Charles will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A Visitation will be held Sunday, July 21, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 8:00pm at Royal Palm Funeral Home, 5601 Greenwood Avenue, West Palm Beach, Fl. 33407. A Celebration of life will occur Monday, July 22, 2024 at 11:00am at Orthodox Primitive Baptist Church 2900 North Australian Avenue, West Palm Beach, Florida 33407. A Committal Service will follow at Royal Palm Memorial Gardens. Services are entrusted to Royal Palm Funeral Home. Please log on to royalpalmfuneralhome.com to share memories and leave condolences.