Andrew Lee Bracy, affectionately known as Drew, Unc, or Bracy, passed away on February 11, 2024, embracing the promise of eternal life. Born on March 28, 1948, in Mobile, Alabama, Andrew lived a life dedicated to his family, personal values, and unwavering faith.
Baptized at an early age, Andrew devoted his life to serving both people and the Lord. A wildcat forever, Drew graduated from Central High School in 1966. In 1969, he was drafted into the Army and bravely served on the front lines in Vietnam. His experiences not only included battles with the enemy, but also battles against racial prejudice within his ranks. These experiences deepened his love for his fellow black people.
Upon returning from the war, Andrew embarked on a 40-year career at the Sherwin Williams Company, where his commitment and loyalty were celebrated. Andrew's gift for connecting with people made him invaluable in sales and logistics.
Andrew and Shelia Mason exchanged vows on July 18, 1980, at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Mobile, AL.
In his time, Andrew would father three daughters: Jermeka, Tameka, and Eboné.
Above all, Andrew was committed to serving God. As an elder and usher at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, he emulated the love of Jesus by caring for others. Andrew's compassion extended beyond the church walls, as he generously gave to those in need.
Andrew valued his personal health and remained active throughout his life. He was an avid tennis player and exercised regularly. He enjoyed watching sports, particularly cheering for the Las Vegas Raiders, Auburn Tigers, and Boston Celtics. Attending HBCU classics was also a favorite pastime. Family gatherings and barbecues brought him great joy, and he never passed up a good meal.
During retirement, Andrew and Shelia traveled the southeast. Andrew's wit and sharp sense of humor were well-known, and he loved comedy, Sanford and Son, Martin, and James Bond being among his favorites. A love of crossword puzzles helped fill his spare time.
Andrew leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife Shelia Bracy; beloved daughters Jermeka McCants, Tameka (Kenneth) Peters, and Eboné (Jonathan – devoted son-in-law) Andrews; brothers-and sisters-in-love, Barbara D. Evans of Los Angeles, CA; Barbara A. (Elijah) Antoine of Baton Rouge, LA; Warren (Shirley) Mason; Maxine (Robert) Bryant; Sarah (Michael – previously departed) Mason; Nathaniel Mason, Sr.; Blondine Mason; and Bruce Mason – all of Mobile, AL. He also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews. He will be missed by many other relatives, friends, neighbors, as well as by his church family and his “granddogs” Flocka and Artemis.
In Paradise, he joins his father Eugene and his mother Sallie, as well as his brother Rev. Eugene Lewis and his sister Janie Mae Gaillard. Additionally, he is preceded in death by his father-in-law Walter Mason; Sr. and mother-in-law Reather Mason, as well as brother-in-law Walter Mason, Jr.