Andrea Lin Aldridge

Andrea was born to Marvin and Linda on September 5, 1977, in Kansas City, MO, the second of their three children. Annie, as she was affectionately known, loved school and reading books. Her love of books would become a lifelong passion. In her early teens Andrea faced difficult medical challenges. In addition to being a Type I diabetic, she suffered a stroke and was diagnosed with a rare brain disease at age 13. Despite those giant hurdles, Annie went on to graduate from Basehor-Linwood High School in 1996.

A lifelong resident of the Kansas City area, Andrea held various jobs during her life, but they all had one thing in common - her love for working with people. She loved her work family and loved making everyone smile and laugh. When she wasn’t working you could find Andrea reading (probably Koontz or King) or watching sports (probably boxing with Carl). But being a mother was one of the most important parts of Andrea’s life, a role that gave her much pride and joy. Andrea raised two children, Kelcey and Logan Reed, in Tonganoxie, KS. Her children describe how Andrea liked to sing a little tune walking around the house. Annie was always goofy and lighthearted. Anyone who knew Andrea knew the type of caring soul she had and knows how difficult this loss is for our family, especially her children and siblings.

Andrea was predeceased by her mother, Linda L. Woodson. She is survived by her longtime partner, Carl G. Wheeler; daughter, Kelcey R. Reed; son, Logan R. Reed; brother, Stephen (Corenna) Aldridge; sister, Jenny Aldridge; father, Marvin Aldridge; maternal grandmother, Lewise Chavers and numerous family and friends.

In lieu of a traditional funeral service, a celebration of life in her honor will be announced once the family has determined a location and date.